Our trip to California was a trip that would serve several purposes. One was for Shaun to come down to LA and work with his team at the offices in Santa Monica for a week.  Another was to attend our Taylor Family Reunion (my fathers side of the family) and see family that we haven’t connected with since the passing of my grandmother back in 2012. Unfortunately not everyone could make it to the first reunion, but I am sure there will be more!

The reunion was held up at Rincon State Beach in Ventura County and the day couldn’t have been more perfect. A pending heat wave threatened to make the day too hot, but it wasn’t. It was perfect. The beach was busy but not swamped and there was plenty of space to walk, play and enjoy a beautiful Southern California day.

We spent the day talking and catching up with everyone. Abby and Ellie had the chance to meet their cousin Bella who is their age and they hit it off right away. We listened to music, ate amazing food (courtesy of my cousin Joseph and his excellent BBQ skills) and welcomed some new members of the family (spouses and girlfriends).

Sarah walking the beach with Abby, Ellie and Bella

A beautiful day along the Southern California coast. A rare photo with my hubby!!

Abby loved getting into the water and feeling the sand in her toes.

Ellie was surprised by a wave… and loving it.

Sisters and best friends

Ellie and Bella had the exact same bathing suit!

Eric and his girlfriend Michelle! It was so nice to meet you!

Talking and eating! I tend to get a lot of pictures of people eating but thats because they are standing still!

Laurie, John and Matt having a great chat.

Chatting, laughing and posing.

Back from the beach! Now they are pretending to be mountain lions on the rock. I think.

The ladies catching up! Looking wonderful Aunt Dena!

The photographers of the family are taking notes and sharing stories.

Jillian… always ready with a pose.

The day comes to a close and we start saying our goodbyes! Until next time Taylor Family!

Perfect sunsets for a perfect end to that day.

When the day came to an end it was hard to say goodbye to everyone. But we will see one another soon! All I know is that our first family reunion was a big success and grandma and grandpa would have been so very proud of their family. They may not have been there in body but they were there in spirit and I know they were both smiling down on us today.