Oscar and I went out to Los Angeles to visit my brother and his family a few weekends ago (a bit behind on the write up!). They have a new(ish) baby who we had not yet met. I brought Oscar because each of the girls had already been with me on a trip out there. Given the high drama from my 9-year old boy these days, it also seemed like some one-on-one time would do us both some good.
My brother's baby is adorable, charming us all with his smiles, giggles, and foot gnawing. Seeing a beautiful 6-month old baby boy reminded me of Oscar's early days, and left me wondering how he could possibly be 9 already.
Aside from the adorable cousins (and their still so stylish parents), the highlights were the Petersen Automotive Museum, Legoland, Will Rogers State Beach, and the neighborhood swimming pool. We also strolled around the Los Angeles County Museum of Art and the La Brea Tar Pits. Our favorite food spots were the La Brea Bakery Cafe and the Original Farmers' Market in West Hollywood, especially Loteria for the kind of tacos we just don't get out here.
About that car museum. There was just something so appealing about the lines of those Vespas and old cars. Is it just me, or do they look like this?
The low point was the Warner Brothers Tour. It was fascinating for a little while to see behind the scenes and to get a glimpse of how much effort goes into filming a movie or TV show, but it would have been much more interesting for those who watch much more TV than we do, especially those who follow Warner Brothers' shows (Gilmore Girls, anyone?). There was some interesting Harry Potter paraphernalia in the museum and we got sorted by the sorting hat (Hufflepuff for me; Gryffindor for Oscar), but otherwise if I were to go back, I would prepare by watching lots of WB shows first.
All in all, it was great to see my brother and his sweet family, and to spend some time with Oscar. And now I have lots of pictures to sustain me through those tough 9-year old days.
What a wonderful trip for just the two of you! I love that you compared the lines of classic cars to a Kitchen Aid mixer! I've always love love loved Kitchen Aid mixers! Welcome home!
Posted by: Leticia- Tech Savvy Mama | July 19, 2011 at 10:36 AM
I am also shocked that Oscar is nine - how is it possible?? The individual trips you take with the kids are so special and wonderful - and clearly unforgettable for each of you. Love, Patti
Posted by: Patti | July 19, 2011 at 11:00 AM
I am so sorry you didn't like the WB tour, especially since we highly recommended it!! We don't watch TV either, but our guide included enough classic movie references to keep us enthralled. We loved Loteria too!
Posted by: Gina | July 19, 2011 at 08:34 PM
So that's what a Kitchen Aid stand mixer reminds me of.
Posted by: Duncan | July 19, 2011 at 09:48 PM
Dearest Margy, what a wonderful picture of you and Oscar!!...You're such a beautiful mother...hope to see you soon....oh..and John's baby is delicious!
Posted by: eva | July 20, 2011 at 04:44 PM
I think that similarity to the Kitchen Aid explains why I fell in love with Vespas at first sight. Gina, don't worry about the WB tour! It was interesting, but just a bit much for my 9-year old boy. Also, our guide may not have been as good, and my knowledge of his references was definitely lacking. Gabe should have been there instead. And you and Kevin had lots of other great recommendations. Thanks!
Posted by: Margy | July 24, 2011 at 02:15 PM