How is California cooler than here?

It has been obscenely hot here for us Washingtonians with the temps reaching the 100's today. Luckily, we are escaping to the nice pleasant weather of Southern California. Yes, it is in the low 80's down there right now. I haven't written anything lately just because I haven't had the energy. Our house gets so hot. It was 89 last night and the night before last inside the house. With the temperatures only cooling down to around 68 at night, the coolest our house has been the last few days is 83. So, we finally retreated last night and sought refuge with Dan's parents in their air conditioning. Delaney got a good night's sleep before we leave and it was quite pleasant. Now, coming home and packing in an 85 degree house, not so much fun. I will have plenty of pictures to post when we get back. Dan will be meeting us down there later on. Hope you all stay cool!