We’ve been traveling a lot the last few months, but we still managed to go on our Grandkid Getaway with Jameson and Charlotte. We squeezed in the trip just before they started the new school year, and it was a great way to celebrate the end of summer.
We returned to Angels Camp once again, and when we told the kids we were going back, I was amazed at what they remembered from the previous year. They were excited to do some of the same things again, like the frog hunt and looking out for deer. Jameson even remembered our room number.
Sierra brought the kids to us on Friday afternoon, and we headed up the hill. I kept telling the kids we would see some really big trees, and every time Charlotte spotted a tree, she’d ask, “Are those the really big trees, Granny?” We checked in, unpacked, explored the room, went swimming, and ordered a pizza for dinner.
On Saturday morning, Jameson woke up at about 5:15 a.m. but graciously waited until 6:00 a.m. before entering our room. We ate a quick breakfast and headed to Calaveras Big Trees before it got too hot. Now Charlotte knew what I meant by really big trees. Our first little hike took us on an incline, and Charlotte complained. We decided to stay on the flat trail, and they were much happier. They had a ball following the map and reading about the different trees on the trail. But they really enjoyed greeting the other park visitors along the way.
After returning from the state park and an afternoon swim, we traveled to San Andreas to attend Mass at St. Andrew’s Catholic Church, where our former pastor (and friend) Fr. Bill McDonald was assigned. He spotted us as he processed in and gave us a shocked look. He then welcomed us by name in his opening remarks. The kids loved it. Hearing our names and the greeting really got their attention. We were also thrilled to see our (All Saints Parish) seminarians Josh and Josue serving at Mass with Fr. Bill.
Sunday kept a slower pace, with two swim sessions, a movie, games and puzzles. As promised, we went on the frog hunt and even got in some golf practice. The kids enjoy swimming, but their favorite part of these trips is spending time in the room.
These memories are precious. I tell all of my new-grandparent friends to start these trips early. It doesn’t have to be an exotic location to make it a memorable experience. (Our first overnight trip was to the DoubleTree in Modesto.) They are just happy exploring and spending time with us. I know that won’t always be the case, so I am taking advantage of the time they want to be with us now.
