Murietta

Sea World was WET!!

But we had purchased tickets at no small cost and we were going!

We kept laughing that we were actually sitting through shows as the rain drizzled down on us watching animals leap in the water and acrobats swing through the air. We weren't much into the orchestrated shows (except Shamu and his whale friends were incredible - gorgeous and sleek and totally amazing in every way) but we loved seeing all the sea life swimming in their different huge aquariums. Words just don't suffice when trying to describe the wildness and beauty and diversity.

We got to play with some bat sting rays in a pool and it was amazing to touch them and rub them as they swam by. They were huge and the experience put a huge smile on all of our faces. How cool is that to touch one of those rubbery slippery creatures that we normally just observe on our animal documentaries.

The baluga whales were so graceful and beautiful. I could have sat and watched them for ever so long, but there was always something pulling us onward. Another show involving more outrageously amazing sea life. Sea lions, dolphins, whales, turtles, sharks, penguins, polar bears...

So we were wet but satisfied to have feasted our eyes on more of God's brilliant creation.

The wet trip continued as we drove to Murietta where the daughter is attending a Bible College in about the most beautiful setting imaginable. Hot springs, a lake, spanish style buildings, mosaics, lush gardens surrounding beautiful walkways, fountains, pools, palms...

OH MY GOODNESS! She is surrounded by incredible beauty and amazing bible teaching so it doesn't get much better than that. Plus she has wonderful room mates, so she is well taken care of for this season of her life

The son drove us to some vineyards before where he purchased a bottle of well sought out wine for his beloved. Then we enjoyed lunch at one of the daughter's favorite eateries - Chipotle's. Delicious Mexican food followed by some frozen yogurt at a nearby shop for dessert. Just so much goodness on so many levels!

It was not difficult to say farewell to the daughter as we dropped her back off at the Bible College. Knowing she is in such a very good place made that easy which is a gift from God. She is a very beloved daughter, but this is a season for her to find her own way and to enjoy her own journey with God and new friends.

Daniel and I hit an outlet mall where we made some fun purchases and then we enjoyed the amazing scenery around Lake Elisnore as we traveled towards the ocean. My favorite ocean side town was Carmalito or something like that? Spanish ruins and sweet little shops, a large stone church with huge bells tolling right as we drove by. I fell in love even though we didn't have time to stop and wander the streets.

The rain and darkness set in shortly after this so we hit the I-5 and headed back to San Diego where we are now bedded down for the night. Ready to celebrate Daniel's birthday tomorrow on the plane!

Thank you dear Jesus for this privilege of spending time with my precious kids.