From Desert Adventures to Beach Bliss: Our Thanksgiving Road Trip Extravaganza

Hey there, fellow wanderers! Buckle up for a tale of family, friends, and a cross-country journey that took us from the cozy poolside vibes at Uncle Bill's to the sandy shores of Huntington Beach, with a few unexpected pit stops and detours along the way.

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Our adventure began with heartfelt farewells to family and friends in Mesa. Although they didn't join us on the road trip this time, the memories of poolside chats and laughter lingered as we embarked on the next leg of our journey towards the sun-soaked beaches of California. So, with a car full of enthusiasm and the road stretching ahead, we bid Mesa adieu, leaving our loved ones behind as we ventured onward to create new memories on this next chapter of our Thanksgiving road trip extravaganza.

Now, let me tell you, crossing state lines comes with its own set of surprises. First on the list: sticker shock at the diesel pump. At Morongo Casino, we made a pit stop to refuel both the car and our energy levels. Little did we know, we parked by the ghost of casinos past! A brisk walk later, we found ourselves at the new, bustling casino building, ready for the next leg of our journey.

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Cruising through Riverside, we took a detour down memory lane, passing the schools and childhood home of our travel companion. Navigating through traffic and dodging construction cones, we finally reached the sandy haven of Huntington Beach just in time for Thanksgiving.

As we gathered around the table for a feast, cousins and chaos ensued. Uncle Kevin's new puppy became the honorary playmate, turning the backyard into a canine carnival. Laughter echoed as the kids ran wild, creating memories as enduring as the ocean waves.

Days unfolded with adventures aplenty. L embarked on an epic bike ride with Grandma, while M and O joined us for a mouthwatering lunch at Stacked. The beach beckoned, and L received a personalized volleyball lesson from none other than Coach Uncle Matthew. Boogie boarding with Dad in the Pacific? Check!

Uncle Kevin and M, ever the dynamic duo, played catch and sifted through the sand for hidden treasures. A trip to the fish store revealed potential additions to the colossal 100-gallon saltwater tank masterfully crafted by Uncle Kevin and Matthew.

Amid the enchanting world of Disney's Downtown, we celebrated the Walt Disney Company's 100th anniversary at Black Tap. Indulging in mouthwatering burgers and bespoke milkshakes, the atmosphere was a perfect blend of magic and flavor. Each bite was a nod to Disney's rich history, and the custom shakes, true to the occasion, were whimsical delights. Black Tap at Downtown Disney not only satisfied our taste buds but also paid a delicious homage to a century of Disney enchantment. Cheers to a lunchtime filled with both culinary delights and the timeless magic of Walt Disney's legacy!

Our bellies full and hearts even fuller, we bid an early farewell after celebrating Auntie Ellie's birthday. Armed with breakfast sandwiches from Jack in the Box and coffee from Steadfast Cafe, we set our GPS for the next destination: Desert Eagle RV Park on Nellis Airforce Base in Las Vegas.

Excitement bubbled as we anticipated exploring the base, the scenic wonders of Lake Mead National Recreation Area, and the awe-inspiring Valley of Fire State Park and Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. With the open road ahead and a playlist of memories in the making, our Thanksgiving road trip extravaganza continued to unfold.

So, dear reader, stay tuned for more tales from the asphalt, as we weave through the highways and byways of the American West, in search of adventure, laughter, and the next unforgettable chapter in our family journey.

**Embark on this journey with us! Your support fuels our adventures and helps bring the world to your screen. Click the coffee cup in the bottom right corner to be a part of our travel stories – every contribution makes our next destination possible or subscribe at [https://www.buymeacoffee.com/lenoir](https://www.buymeacoffee.com/lenoir), not only do you become a vital part of our travel community, but you'll also receive a personal touch from our journeys – a monthly postcard sent straight to your doorstep. Embrace the world with us, one postcard at a time. Your support makes the adventure all the more meaningful!**