California Trip; Week Three!!!

After some sushi and a sunset we went back to Grandma Judy's to clean up for our long car ride to Anaheim. Mom packed the car for our weekend trip while Grandma kept Macie and I occupied. When she was sure we had EVERYTHING we could need, all of us loaded into the packed rental car and hit the road. Macie passed out shortly after we hit the freeway, but I was too excited to sleep, and stayed awake ALL THE WAY to the hotel (we didn't get there till 9:30 PM.) We checked into our hotel and Mom immediately went to work getting the room ready for bed time. She set up my crib, put on my music and went through my nightly routine (story, prayers, etc.) Knowing that I wouldn't fall asleep with distractions in the room Mom took Macie into the bathroom to give me time to fall asleep.

Rumor has it that she kept Macie in her car seat and set a DVD player on the toilet, allowing Macie to watch a baby movie while she sat Indian style in the bathtub and ate a night time snack of pop corn and peanut m n m's. She called Dad and laughed at how silly the two of them must have looked. When she determined that I was "out cold" they ventured back into the main room and got ready for bed themselves, but sleep didn't last long for the Frankwick girls as Macie and I woke up really early. Macie was having a rough night, and being in the same room with her wasn't much fun. The second one of her cries jolted me out of sleep I was up. "Hello Macie" was the first thing I said, the second was "can we go to Disneyland now". Mom told me that the park didn't open for another 5 hours (since it was 5am), so we ate breakfast, watched some cartoons, and cleaned up the room for check out.

It seemed like 9am was never going to come. When it finally did, Mom, Macie, and I all took off for Disneyland. When we arrived outside I was SO excited I could hardly contain myself!!!

Because we got to the park right as it opened we beat a lot of the crowd and were able to walk around and meet some of my favorite Disney characters. Minnie was full of smiles, and so was I as we posed for a picture.

After going to see the Little Einstein show we rode some rides. Here I am in a Chinese Take-out carton on the Ant ride.

Can you believe they let Macie ride as well?!?!? Mom was proud of her for being so brave since the ride went super high and spun around.

After a ride on the caterpillar train I took a break to hang out with my good pal Pluto.

So much excitement, and the day wasn't even close to being over!! When Macie and I were both too exhausted to keep our eyes open Mom placed us in our comfy stroller and we took a much needed 2 hour nap. We woke up refresh and ready to go!

On our way to check out some attractions we ran in to Mickey Mouse himself! It was great to hang out with him for a while- the two of us danced and laughed before I had to give the other friends a turn to greet him.

By the time it was 3:30 I had worked up a HUGE appetite, and was anxious to get to Ariel's Grotto to eat "lunch with the princesses." We arrived a couple minutes early and were escorted into the restaurant where Ariel was waiting. I ran straight for her and greeted her with the biggest hug ever. She was so beautiful I couldn't believe it. I monopolized all of her time, and forgot all about my rumbling tummy until the waiter called me over to my table for lunch.

I was served a lunch of mac and cheese with goldfish in it and wondered why Mom had never served up this fancy cuisine at home- guess its too advanced for her level of expertise. As tasty as it was, I found it hard to concentrate on my meal because everywhere I looked there were princesses!

The first princess to stop by our table was Cinderella. Mom caught me mid bite as I struggled to talk to her while the camera snapped a picture. Mom says that princesses don't talk with their mouths full, Ooops...

Belle came to our table next, and this time I put down my food to smile properly.

Princess Aurora (Sleeping Beauty) was one of my favorites, she was so nice!

She even posed for a picture with Macie!!!

The last princess to greet us wasn't a princess at all...It was Minnie Mouse. Mom said she wanted to play dress up too!

After the princesses left, the waiter brought out desert. Check out the platter in front of me- I thought Mom had died and gone to Heaven. Without hesitation, or consideration to acting like ladies, we dove into the desert.

While Mom was inhaling the chocolate cake, I went to work on the white chocolate conch shell.

Not wanting Macie to feel left out, Mom let her try her very first taste of chocolate. She loved it, of course, I mean she is a Schafer after all and I believe they carry that gene.

After a whirlwind day of food, fun, and fairy tales, we were pooped! When the sun set and the day turned to night we drove inland to Huntington Beach to see Jeff and Susan!!! I was so exhausted from the events of the day, but nothing could have kept me from running into Jeff and Susan's house to greet them with enthusiasm. After 3o minutes of hellos and hugs, I was forced to retire for the evening.

I woke up early in the morning ready to hang out with my buddies. Jeff and I played with their new dog Charlie whom I endearingly named "Charlity Char Char."

We spent the morning catching up on the last 8 months of life, and both Jeff and Susan really enjoyed getting to know Macie. At noon we loaded the car and headed back to Disneyland. Macie and I took naps in the car, but the drive was only 20 minutes so I was still in a deep sleep when we arrived. Mom carefully transferred me into the stroller and I slept the whole van ride into the park.

Mom woke me up when we reached "It's a small world." I jumped on Jeff's lap as we got in line for the ride.

The ride was a little overwhelming at first, but Susan helped me sing the song and my apprehension quickly disappeared! By the end of the ride I was singing the whole chorus and wishing we could go back for more. We had the best day at Disneyland riding rides, looking at all the amazing sites, and spending time with one another.

We stayed at the park long after dark, and even managed to catch the end of the Disney parade. I go to see all the characters dancing and singing. In the van ride back to the car Macie and I got to sit in our own seats like big girls,

and Macie even got a pin that said "my first Disney visit!"

Needless to say we both crashed as soon as we got to the house and slept through the whole night. We woke up early the next morning ready for some more fun. I entertained Jeff and Susan with some antics that they had been missing for all the months I'd been away.

Sage and I even enjoyed some lounging time on the couch.

As usual, they had the house stocked with my favorite cuisine so I dined on nuggets as I ran around the house playing. After I ate breakfast Jeff and Susan surprised me with some unexpected gifts. Mom says that they spoil me way too much, but boy am I glad that they do!!! While Mom and I had been driving some cars at Disneyland, Jeff and Susan had been secretly shopping for me. They bought me all of the princesses; Belle, Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella, Ariel, Tinkerbelle, and Snow White!!! I could not believe my eyes!

Not only did I get gifts from Disneyland, but I also got to open some Christmas presents! I was super excited when I opened an Elmo kitchen for the fridge. Now I can cook with Mom in the kitchen! I don't know what I did to deserve all these wonderful things, but whatever it is I better keep doing it!

In the afternoon Mommy's good friend Heather came by the house to visit with us. It was great to see her again, and her and Mommy got to catch up with one another while walking on the boardwalk as Macie and I slept in the stroller (just like old times in HB).

Back at the house, and refreshed from our naps, Macie and I played with our new toys. Macie is tolerating being on her stomach a little more every day- notice how she actually looks content...

Before we left the house Macie and I snuggled on the couch with Jeff and Susan.

Before driving back to San Diego we all went out to McDonalds to eat and burn some steam before our long car ride. Wendy and I played around on the playplace together, and shared some laughs. I really love hanging out with Wendy and can't wait to see her when I get back in the summer!

While we were tearing up the playplace Macie soaked up some love and attention.

When the food was gone and I was pooped from all the running it was time to hit the road. It was very hard to say our goodbyes. We LOVE spending time with the Jacklin's and are so grateful that they are a part of our lives.

I am really looking forward to coming out to Huntington Beach in the summer and seeing everyone again!

The next morning I woke up in Grandma Judy's room and concluded that I was back in San Diego. Grandma and I went straight out to the beach, ate a picnic and played in the sand.

Macie was glad to be outdoors, and is looking forward to playing in the sand when she gets big!

Grandma had some work to to that afternoon, so Mom took Macie and I out to Lake Murray for a nap outdoors in the warm sun. When I woke up we went right over to Pa's house to hang out (and when I say 'hang' I mean hang.)

All of us drove over to his baseball field to spend some time together. While I ran up and down the play gym Pa nicely shared some of his orange with Macie and she really enjoyed it. Just like I did when I was little, she kept cooing for more...

When Macie was done with her snack the three of us explored the baseball field. We got to sit in the dugout with Pa and see what it was like to be a ballplayer.

One of my favorite things was taking a walk with Pa around the bases!

At dusk we headed over to the Umbarger's house to say goodbye to the family. As soon as I arrived I went straight for Chloe and chased her through the house. She was super excited to see me and I was glad I finally found someone who could keep up with me!

I had to admit that I was a little envious of Macie when she got to sleep on Chloe's dog bed in the first week of our trip, so Aunt Connie graciously allowed me to snuggle up in Chloe's kennel. I bet Macie's the one whose jealous now...

I had such an amazing time hanging out with my family, and am going to miss them more than I can say.

On our last day in San Diego Mom spent the morning running some errands while Grandma Judy and I went to the Ocean. In the afternoon Mom took us out to La Mesa to say our goodbyes to Pa. Before we got to the park to meet Pa Mom made a pit stop at our favorite Ice Cream place. She was determined to give Macie a few bites to celebrate her upcoming 6 month birthday as she had given me when I was little. At the park we dove into our treats. Macie seemed really excited when she held the cup in her hands,

but seemed unsure as she was tasting it. I think the problem is that Mom got vanilla instead of chocolate...

By the third bite Macie seemed to enjoy the icy treat, but not nearly as much as I once did. I guess that's a good thing because we don't have any GoldenSpoon's in Ohio, and I don't want her to go through withdrawals on a daily basis like Mom and I do.

Macie gave Pa some big hugs, and told him that she was looking forward to seeing him in July when she would be moving and talking (we hope).

I had a harder time saying my goodbye to Pa- I didn't want to leave, and was SUPER sad that I wouldn't be able to see him everyday.

Back at the beach Mom returned our rental car and packed up the house before we went to dinner. I insisted that our last meal in San Diego be eaten at my Sushi place, so Grandma, Macie, and I walked across the street for some rolls.

I ate until my little tummy couldn't take any more. We went back to Grandma's house where I took a bath and passed out. In the morning I was rudely awoken by Mom. Apparently it was time to get dressed and go to the airport. I wasn't too excited to travel, but was eager to get home to see my Dad. We made it to the airport and through security without incident. Like Will, Grandma Judy was able to get a special pass to help us to the gate, so Mom was very grateful. Macie sat in my car seat with Grandma Judy while Mom kept tabs on me as I ran around the terminal.

Time flew by and before we knew it we were called to the gate to board our plane. We gave Grandma Judy big hugs and thanked her for a wonderful trip!

San Diego was AWESOME, and I know that this summer we are going to have tons of fun at the beach. I plan on learning to swim so that I can get on a surf board in July!!

On the plane Macie made herself comfortable in my car seat, while I got to sit in my own seat like a big girl!

Before long I was rubbing my eyes and Mom made me a bed across two seats (she sat on the floor where our feet go). I was out cold a few minutes after my head hit the pillow and slept the whole first leg of our flight.

As we were walking off the plane Dad surprised us by coming into the terminal to meet us. I was SO excited to see him that I shrieked and ran into his arms. Our trip to California could not have gone any better; We were able to spend time with family and friends, as well as visit some of my favorite spots. I am thankful to everyone who helped make our trip such a success, and have many memories that will last a lifetime.

Despite the cold weather, and 4 feet of cold snow I am glad to be home with my family. Don't get me wrong, I am counting down the days until I get to go back again, but for now I am looking forward to spending some time at home!

California Trip; Week Two!!!

Back at the beach the sun was shining, and life was GOOD!

The family woke early, excited to be in San Diego, and went straight to the beach where we played in the sand and enjoyed the early morning sun.

After Macie's morning nap the family spent some time at the Ocean. Dad and I ran in and out of the waves, and marveled at the one-of-a-kind February climate.


We walked up and down the shoreline collecting shells, and founds tons of intact sand dollars which are really rare to find in the late morning! While we were frolicking on the shore Mom fed Macie her morning snack of pears. Macie seemed to enjoy her first picnic on the beach!




When she was done eating it was time for play! Dad took her out to the water and she touched the Pacific Ocean for the first time!!!

It was official, Macie had made it to the ocean and Mom couldn't contain her excitement! She promises that one day we will all be beach bums together.

Before heading back to the house we took a family picture. Despite the numerous takes, this was the best we could get (you could tell I was getting restless).

We spent the whole day basking in the sun, and then had dinner with some good friends. Full, filthy, and exhausted from a day of play we went home to Grandma's to rest up. After I was cleaned and put to bed it was Macie's turn. She didn't like bathing in Grandma's bathtub, so after a few moments of brainstorming Mom came up with an alternate, yet brilliant idea!

She placed the Bumbo chair in the sink and to her surprise it fit perfectly! Macie loved her new bath, and remained warm since the Bumbo allowed water to stay pooled in the bottom.

The next morning we woke up and went straight to the bay. Macie really enjoyed being outside in the sun- we are going to have SO much fun when spring finally makes it to Ohio!

While Macie and Mom played in the grass Dad and I took a walk along the bay. I picked Macie some flowers and put them in her hair.

I love my little sister, and according to Mom she absolutely adores me. Check out how much fun we have together:

After running a few errands in the afternoon awe went out to the Umbarger's to spend time with our family.

Uncle Randy and I hung out in his tractor trailer. Check out the super cool seat he made just for me!!!

Afterwards I walked through the orchard and picked some oranges. Uncle (Aunt) Liz helped me peel and eat them, and boy were they yummy!!!

Back inside Connie and I played around with Chloe. I call her the Chloester. Here I am with Chloe in her handbag.

I am grateful that Macie is so content all the time, because I require, and DEMAND, a TON of attention!

We had an amazing time with my family, and Macie has fit right in to the mix- We can't (nor do we want to) remember what life was like without her.

The next morning Mom, Dad, Macie, and I went out bright and early to a park by the bay. Mom was super excited that we got to use our AWESOME new stroller (so excited in fact she even posed for a picture)!!!

At the park we all enjoyed a ride on the swings.

Here is a video of Macie and I on the swings:

When the swings became yesterdays news, I tore through the playground, running and climbing. While I was occupying my own time Dad and Macie decided it was time to try out the slide.

Before they could go down Mom insisted on getting her video camera. I don't know why she has to film EVERYTHING Macie does, I guess she was excited to see Macie's reaction...

Although her first ride down the slide didn't produce much enthusiasm Mom was still pleased that she didn't cry!

Before Dad had to fly back to Ohio the family had a picnic on the bay.

It was really sad seeing Dad leave for the airport. Pa came and picked him up, and I broke down as the two of them drove away. To alleviate the tears Mom took us inside and put us to bed. After our naps we went to visit Miss Paula, Kristin Salinas' Mommy. Macie got to meet her for the first time, and I was excited to be back at her house of fun!

After chasing the kitties, playing the piano, and being spoiled with presents, snacks, and attention I went outside to see Mary before leaving. I always ask Mom about Mary in Miss Paula's garden, and was super excited to give her a big hug!

Back at Grandma Judy's Macie and I put on our jammies and got ready for bed. Mom kept remarking how tall Macie was getting, so she placed us next to each other to take a picture. I think I am a good foot taller, but Mom thinks its a little more like 6 inches. Macie goes to the doctor for her 6 month check up when we get home so we will see...

The next morning we woke up and went out to the ball field to watch Pa play. I felt like a super star. I got to wear Pa's hat and go into the dugout like one of the guys!

After his game we went to Lake Murray to feed the ducks. Pa brought bread for me to toss, and boy did those ducks come quacking! It was super warm out in East County, and Mom hadn't come prepared- in Ohio it is so cold that shorts and other warm weather clothing are unheard of. I was sweating in my thermal top and sweats.

As the day went on, I began to lose layers...

Here I am in my top and undies while fishing with my stick.

Before long I had taken matters into my own hands and stripped down to my skives and shoes where I was much more comfortable.

It was a ton of fun hanging out around the lake, and Macie and Pa shared some laughs as he played with her in the Bumbo (which we now take EVERYWHERE.)

I was super excited when Miss Linda showed up with my friends Aidan and AJ. All of us got together and ran around yelling and wreaking havoc.

During our tirade Pa tried his "cool dude" shades on Macie, and she really enjoyed them!

We became envious of the fun they were having, so Aidan and I all put some shades on as well, and we all made silly faces while Mom tried to take some pictures.

It was so entertaining that I just kept on coming up with new ones...

The afternoon at the park was filled with excitement, and it left me exhausted. Both Macie and I were glad to got to spend time with Pa, but were ready for some long naps.

While Mom loaded up the car Pa and I took some hot laps around the parking lot. If I keep hanging around Pa I will be road ready in no time!

The next morning we drove up to UTC to see Miss Renee and her kids. I couldn't wait to play with Emmy and Brady, and was really excited to see how big Maddy was since we had last seen her in July.

Emmy and I hadn't skipped a beat, and picked up right where we left off.

Poor Miss Renee had her hands full while we shopped through the mall. Mom doesn't know how she manages to stay sane and look so put together with all the work she has to do...

We enjoyed playing at the mall and even got to eat lunch while watching the figure skaters dance on the ice. With naps approaching for most of the crew Mom and Renee said their goodbyes. All of us were sad to go, but we look forward to playing together again soon!

We took an evening in to re cooperate, and it was a good thing we did because the rest of the week was full of non-stop fun! On Wednesday we picked up Grandma Jean and went to the ball park to watch PA's game. I had a lot of fun cheering him on.

After the game was done the family went back to Lake Murray for a picnic with the ducks. Grandma Jean and I feasted on some berries and animal crackers.

When we were finished eating it was approaching 11am, and it felt more like the middle of June than February. Mom had dressed me in a sweatsuit at 6am, not planning that it would be so warm inland. She didn't know what to do- she sure didn't want me running around in my undies again like last time, but hadn't brought any warm weather clothing (since my last year's summer wear was in storage back home.) She had some extra clothes in the car, but all of mine were long sleeve tops and long pants (we haven't purchased any warm weather clothes for me since last summer because Ohio weather doesn't exactly allow us to wear shorts and tanks). The only thing Mom could do was hope that one of Macie's rompers would fit like a short dress. She slipped it over my head, and luckily it was long enough to cover my behind. What mom didn't account for was that she could also button the bottoms.

She was shocked when, not only did it fit, but it looked cute!!! Can you believe this romper is size 6-9 months??? I tore around in it all afternoon, and actually got MANY compliments on how cute my outfit was...

This trip to the lake the big ducks came out for some food, and since they are friends with Pa, they let me get up close and personal.

Macie enjoyed playing with her Pa again, and was enthralled by his face as she kept touching and grabbing.

That afternoon we went down to the beach to visit Grandma Jensen and bring her a Valentine's surprise.

As soon as we walked in the door Macie started laughing and giggling as she loved all the bright colors at Grandma Jensen's.

We played with Grandma Jensen's bird for a while, and I almost managed to get him on the ladder...

All the play made my stomach growl with hunger, and I announced to everyone that would listen that I needed some sushi right away!

Mom, Grandma Judy, Macie and I all said our goodbyes to Grandma Jensen and went to my favorite sushi place. Here I am telling Mom that I want a rainbow roll:

After dinner we walked up to the Ocean and watched the sun set over the water.

Life just doesn't get any better, or more beautiful, than this.

Or does it... Check back soon for details of week 3 of my trip.