Gilroy, CA

Nels began his search for a job right after he was laid off.  He applied to several and he was getting some interviews.  He also reached out to International Paper.  Then International Paper called him back a few days later asking him to think about being the controller for a box plant in Gilroy, CA.  Initially, we did not want to go.  Housing is ridiculously expensive.  But IP offered to fly us out to the area so we could get a better idea for it.  

My wonderful sister Melissa watched our two month old twins and Nels's wonderful parents watched our three year olds.  And Nels and I got to go on a little trip for 3 days and 2 nights.  Besides worrying about the kids, I thoroughly enjoyed my time off.  :)  

We ate some delicious food, including ice cream.

I even ordered a hot chocolate at Mimi's Cafe.  Mmmmm.

Omelets at Mimi's too.

We looked at a few houses.  Just so expensive.  We did find one that we could kind of see ourselves in.  But it was disappointing.  The air in Gilroy smells like Garlic.  Because that's what they grow here.  So when it's time to harvest it in the summer the air smells like garlic.

Nels did well with this job interview.  Then we decided to explore a bit and drove to the coast.  We stayed a few minutes walking along Santa Cruz's Beach.

After Santa Cruz, we drove down to Monterey.  It was very foggy and rainy so we didn't see much.  We did eat some delicious pizza at Gianni's.  Then we headed back to the hotel for a good night sleep.

Our trip came to an end and we picked up our kids.  Nels's parents took Isak and Kira to the park, aquarium and made cards and cookies.  They had a great time.

Nels received an offer from IP.  It included a bonus to help cover the huge increase in living expenses.  Obviously, we accepted.  And overall, we've enjoyed our time here.  We've tried to make the most of it.