[life] is a birthday with family
After a relaxing morning Jim and Merrik decided to go out and drive the new R/C truck offroad somewhere there was lots of open space. I put Maliea down for a nap and received a phone call from Jim instructing me to “pack an overnight bag” for everyone. So when he and Merrik returned we tidied up the house and we were off on a surprise escape for my birthday.
We arrived at the Monte Carlo suite of the Doubletree hotel in Dana Point-about 10 miles from home. After relaxing with a glass of wine on the patio overlooking Doheny Beach, we all marched off to the pool and jacuzzi where Maliea threatened to jump in at every turn. So I could relax I suggested we head back to the room and go in the jacuzzi tub.
Later we entertained the kids at Ichibiri’s teppanyaki grill. My first choice was TakaO for sushi but with kids in tow the teppan ended up being a brilliant idea on Dad’s part. The next morning we braved the oncoming storm and headed out for a brisk and brief bike ride in Doheny State Park.


Kristianne Koch specializes in on-location portrait photography for the contemporary family and child for all of Southern California. 949-702-7707 kristianne.koch@cox.net











