Encinitas

If you’re following along with this blog in real time, we only have 4 more full days in California, then we head back to our life in France. These are always the hardest days for me, full of emotions. But wait, I’m getting ahead of myself… let’s enjoy this incredible trip we had down to Encinitas to hang out with a friend of mine who is a big sister to me. I love her deeply, and already miss her greatly. My friend Crystal!

Upon arrival, Django found Crystal’s son’s mud boots. They were a bit on the larger side.

Crystal is a high school ceramics teacher and had some clay for us to play with.

Daphné made a donut and a little pinch pot.

I also made a pinch pot. Crystal made a mermaid for Daphné.

Daphné was so happy to help wash Pancho, the doggie.

Our bud bud Django has not shown much interest in the ocean until this day… I call her the toddler whisperer. She had Django absolutely LOVING getting wet and punching the waves. I’m so thankful he had fun. Thanks Craaaaaastal!

Then he was practicing walking the nose.

Daphné is hooked on boogie boarding, totally in her happy place.

Me and Crystal. Have I mentioned how much I love her?!

Crystal had a week long job as a comp counselor at a cute little farm where she used to take her boys when they were younger. The owner said Daphné and Django could tag along. So much fun!

Django picked a green bean in the garden. (Mom ate it…hehe… so yummy).

Learning about the farm, while Django plays stick swords.

Daphné’s group on the secret bench up on the hill with a beautiful view.

Django in the mud pit about to make some mud pies.

Puppet show - Django participates with glee.

This picture is special to me. Up to this day, we had never met another Django. Well, we met one at this little farm tucked away somewhere in the hills of San Diego. Go figure. I talked with his mom, and he was also named after Django Reinhardt. He was such a cool kid, and I think he liked meeting another Django too.

After farm camp, we went to the kiln to fire our ceramics projects. Daphné and Django found the theatre costumes. HAHA! Never a dull moment.

Daphné proudly wields her sword and shield. She was stoked on the white hair because it made her think of the movie Raya and the Last Drogon.

Farm camp day 2. I got to do a couple songs to start of the day. I think the kids enjoyed singing.

It was a sweet group, and it was very fun to see the kids enjoying being on a farm.

Django had a blast feeding this ravenous little goat.

Then he offered the sheep something cool and refreshing to drink… haha!

Django leading some buddies down the hill.

I can see you. He reminds me of Maz Kanata from the recent Star Wars films. Haha!

Proud of the rainbow chard that he picked.

This was Daphné’s leader, Juliet. They really hit it off.

We got to meet up with one of my friends from university Cortney and her sweet kids, Reese and Julian.

Cortney and me. We were both math majors, RAs in the dorms, loved singing and surfing, dancing ballet and laughing. I know the Lord had us in each other’s lives to spur one another on in His truths. So good to see you Corty!

Morning group hug with sleepy faces and pajamas. Dang, sometimes, I really wish France and California were closer.

One of Crystal’s handsome sons, Micah. He has became like an older cousin to Daphné and Django. I love hearing Django say his name in his Mignon tone, “Mi-cah!”

And speaking of Micah, he is a super talented artist. Look what was waiting for us as we entered their courtyard. SO. MUCH. FUN.

A man who has friends must himself be friendly, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. -Proverbs 18:24

This verse sums up my friendship with Crystal. Jesus, thank You for her. Please bless her, protect her, provide for her, strengthen her and shorten the days between our next meeting. In Your holy and powerful name, Amen.

Love Linz

Grand Finale

Costa Mesa