Thanksgiving Trip - Tuesday

Today was Kya's day to visit UC Davis and meet with two students to show her the College of Ag and Environmental Sciences, specifically the Vet Med and Animal Science areas. 

The pic below is the surgery room that we were able to view. 

Had 2 VERY informative guides. We all were quite impressed with the breadth of educational opportunities at UC Davis. The vet medicine program is known to be the best in the US. 

Also had the chance to walk in the Arboretum which I love to do. It's a peaceful and relaxing walk. 

For the evening activities, we went to Old Sacramento to see the Christmas lights. 

Then back to Drew and Erin's place for a fire outside with hot chocolate. In case I haven't told you, their backyard was transformed by HGTV before they bought the house. There's a fire pit, a shuffleboard court, and a TV. It's a wonderful space. 

Thanksgiving trip - Sunday and Monday

Went to a Methodist church very close to Drew and Erin's house called The Table. Loved the non-traditional service. The contemporary band and vocalists played a diverse styles of music from Raggae to Jazz in English, Spanish and Swahili! It is such an open and welcoming place to worship. 

Since it was a rainy day in Sac, we decided to hit up some wineries then back to meet Shan and Carl. They flew to Boston for Thanksgiving with Carl's family and were coming back. So they picked Kya and me up and away we went to Nevada City to show Kya where Shan and Carl live. It's about 45-60inutes northeast of Sac. 

Shannon had Monday off work so we decided to take the dogs (oh yes, I think I neglected to mention Shan left Milo and newbie Rico with Drew and Erin). Rico has a lot of energy so we decided to see if we could wear him out. 

Hiked the Independence Trail that goes along the Yuba River. 

Californians take their trails very seriously with wooden walk Ways over gorges. 

And they even have "potties" along the way!  

After the hike we took Kya downtown Nevada City shopping. 

Then took a short hike on the "ditch" trail right below Shan's house. Beautiful sunset to end our time there. 

Drove to Crooked Lane Brewery in Auburn to meet Drew and Erin for our next adventure. 

Thanksgiving 2017 - Sacramento and Nevada City

This year I'm traveling with granddaughter, Kya to show her where her uncles and aunts live. 

Flew into Sacramento Friday evening. Saturday morning we were on our way to San Francisco and Alcatraz. Kya has wanted to visit Alcatraz so her ticket is her birthday gift!

Golden Gate Bridge 

Sun setting on Alcatraz.

Bay Bridge

Playing Yatzee at Drew and Erin's new house.