Day 5 - History

Every vacation usually has a little bit of history involved and today was the day. This just happened to be Mom and Dad's least favorite day but it was Grandmother's most enjoyable day. Everyone went to the Cabrillo National Monument, overlooking the San Diego harbor. As you can see, it was very hazy that morning, as it was every morning in San Diego. Don't worry. It cleared up and turned out to be another gorgeous day in Southern California, so I am told.

Here's a picture of the Cabrillo National Monument, in honor of Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo. He and his crew were one of the first Europeans to set foot on what is now known as the west coast of the United States in 1542.

After seeing the sandy cliffs along side of the west coast, now I understand why the state of California has shrunk over the years. This sand does not stand a chance against the crashing waves!

Here's San Diego's skyline amidst the fog. I am sure things looked a lot differently when Cabrillo landed in the harbor in the 1500s.

This is the Old Point Loma Lighthouse. It has guided mariners into the harbor since 1855. I bet Cabrillo wished that this lighthouse was already built when he sailed into the San Diego harbor.

Harrison sure does look like he is enjoying learning about all of this history while at Old Pointe Loma.

Then, everyone went to Old Town San Diego, recreating life in the Mexican and early American periods of the 1800s. There were several historic houses, school house, post office, jail, and museums. Mom and Dad were ready to go but everyone else enjoyed browsing in the unique shops. Harrison even got a few birthday presents. Aunt Allison wanted to buy him some cowboy boots but could not find any. Oh well, we all know that Harrison already has some cute shoes (and they are quite comfortable too).

Mom, of course, enjoyed looking at all of the pretty flowers.

This is the only picture that they got of all seven of the family while out in the city of San Diego. Too bad you can't see Harrison. He was taking a nap and was covered up so that he would not get sunburned. Unfortunately, he inhereted Aunt Allison's complexion.

As I am retelling the stories about San Diego that I have heard over and over again, today is the fourth of July.

Mom and Dad went to a local lake to see the fireworks put on by the city.

Happy Fourth of July - California style!

Also, Happy Birthday to Grandmother Broom!

I, do not enjoy fireworks because the noise scares me. Here is my hiding place for the evening. Mom accused Dad of putting me underneath the pillows and blankets while Dad accused Mom. But, I worked my way into this position myself. I know how to protect myself from sparks falling out of the sky!