Part 3: Family and a beautiful wedding

The remainder of our trip was spent in Banning where a lot of my dad's side of the family lives. It really is my second home and I have a lot of wonderful memories there. Both of my dad's sisters live there and a lot of my cousins. It is where Grandma June and Grandpa Seth lived, whom I miss so much.



We arrived the day before Kate and David's wedding and were excited to be included in the rehearsal dinner activities at my Aunt Kel's house.

It was a bit hotter in Banning than San Diego (by about 20 degrees) so as soon as we arrived we had to go for a quick dip next store at my Auntie Sue's and Uncle Bob's house. Our second cousin's Ethan and Haley were there swimming, what a nice after school activity. Grandma Sue picks them up a lot and they get to go have sweets and swim....

Mason loves other kids and all the cousins had so much fun together.

Grandpa Will had to get in on the swimming action. I think my dad was a fish in a previous life:) Our love for the water comes from both of my parents and I hope Mason can share the same joy.

After we got our swimming fix we headed back to Kelly's to get ready for the rehearsal dinner. I guess I was so excited to catch up with everyone that I forgot to take pictures (it could also have something to do with the whiskey and cokes I had what can I say we are a big Irish Family).

We finally got to meet sweet Karly Anne. My cousin Kelsie and her husband Ricky had their first baby two months after Mason was born. Its great because a lot of us have blogs so we are able to keep up with each other and we couldn't wait to meet Karly and kiss those sweet cheekies. She is one cute lil' bug. For the most part the two got along, I think Karly was more interested in being friends and Mason had to decide if he was game or not. Girls are so much more mature:)

Diaper time. Awww, we miss you Karly.

Karly is becoming quite mobile, I think the next time we see her Mason better watch out.

Just a silly picture of Mason getting into a house plant (have I mentioned he is into EVERYTHING?)

The morning of the wedding, our sexy little bride was excited the big day was finally here.

The wedding was about an hour away at a gorgeous little winery in Temecula. I love weddings and this one was truly beautiful.

Before the ceremony we took some photos. This is my Uncle Mike, whom I was named after, kind of. If I would have been a boy I would have been a Michael. Anyway he is my dad's only brother and the two of them are quite the comic duo. It was so great to see him and he loves kiddos so you can imagine how he gravitated to Karly and Mason.

Everyone was dressed for the affair....

Ethan look handsome as usual.

And Haley was gorgeous in her purple dress.

The flowers were spectacular.


Grandma and Grandpa were glowing and happy.

Mason was adorable.

The bridesmaids looked radiant and flower girls just darling.

The ring bearer, Owen was so cute and full of snails and puppy dog tails.

And of course the bride stole the show. Kate is such a graceful, kind and real person. She is the kind of girl you want as a friend. The two have dated since high school so David has been part of the family for a while, September 18th it became official. He is thoughtful, smart, and funny and they are perfect for each other.

My handsome husband.

Armstead Siblings: Mike, Sue, Kelly, and Will.

The bride and groom sharing a moment before they great all their guests.

The gorgeous couple.

A beautiful sunset on a lovely day.

Happy Trails to you....