Spring Break - Train, Santa Barbara, & Solvang

Where should we go for a short excursion during Emily's spring break??? That's what David and I said for many many days. Then we decided to take a short trip up north via train. And thanks to my mom and dad for treating us to a wonderful time on the train and our stay in Santa Barbara!!!

Our 1st time on Amtrak. 3 1/2 hours from Irvine to Santa Barbara. Business class, upstairs level, seat with a table for 4. Can get up for drinks and snacks. And bathroom is clean too! Did I forget to say there are outlets for the computer too? 

Emily watches some DVDs now...

 Some scenic pictures from the train. I think we're near Carpenteria.

 We are finally at Fess Parker DoubleTree Spa and Resort at Santa Barbara. We took a shuttle from Amtrak to the hotel. Only a 5 minute shuttle ride.

Our hotel room!

Lunchtime!

We got 2 rooms and time to go to the pool!

 And here is my mom trying to find some shade...and she's always cold.

We had a great dinner at Shaloobs for some good steak! David found it on Yelp.com.

 This is a picture of Emily who was so tired from the pool...she's falling asleep.

Next morning for breakfast we went to a cute place called Crush Cake Cafe. Dave found this on Yelp.com too!!! I ordered the Red Velvet pancakes. It was very tasty. David  & Dad ordered potatoes & eggs, and mom and Emily ordered some good and tasty oatmeal. And Emily got a very special hot chocolate.

Now we're off to Solvang in our rental car!

Checking out the souvenir shops! Emily brought some money from her piggy bank to use for souvenirs. She was so excited!Emily bought herself a panda stuffed animal - YooHoo collection. She also bought a birthday gift for CJ, a souvenir for Amanda who was watching Louie during our trip, and a little toy for Lauren.

More pictures...

This is my favorite picture because I have this type of a clog!!!

Back at the hotel having lunch before we head back to the train station and go home.

 Back on the train to go back home. A 4 hour train ride...

Thanks, mom and dad, for a great time in Santa Barbara!!! It was a short trip but a very memorable one!!!