Day 2

Inspired by our exchange partners holiday blog, this is the first entry of my journal which will detail everything we experience during our Californian adventure. Already well into day 2 (Friday) we are all still feeling the effects of jet lag. Holly climbed into bed with me at 4am this morning which signified the beginning of our day and I think we have had a weeks worth of tears from both Louis and Holly in the last 48 hours.

Despite the fatigue, we have already been seduced by Hermosa Beach which includes the most beautiful white sandy beach, quirky boutiques and a wonderful long stretch of walkway along the beachfront called 'The Strand' which is filled with inline skaters, cyclists and runners. After a rather excessive start on the food front yesterday, I joined the locals this morning and completed a 10km run all the way up to 32nd Street in Manhattan Beach which has definitely been my highlight so far.

As yesterday was Will's 12th birthday we celebrated with an authentic all american late breakfast at Scotty's situated on the Strand. The kids loved the pancakes (which were finished off by me) and the Redondo omelette I had was simply delicious. We also managed a trip to Von's the local supermarket which wasn't the most stress free experience with three children in tow but was nevertheless easy enough to find and navigate our way round. It is strange not recognising any of the food on the shelves and makes meal planning a little bit more complicated.

We had been planning to visit the Aquarium of the Pacific today but have postponed until another day when the children are less tired as it's quite expensive and we want to make the most of it. The kids have been having more than enough fun today on the beach, Will has a body board and has been catching some great waves and Holly and Louis are happy chasing away the seagulls and playing in the sand. I had a walk up to the local shops in Hermosa Beach earlier and found a great personal training gym where I have booked some sessions for next week which will be really good fun and offset the pancakes and birthday cake from yesterday hopefully!

Another early night tonight I expect and then a trip to Malibu tomorrow which will be fun. Both Misa and I have tried the driving but need to go out again soon to gain more confidence.