They say everyone has a story, and it’s no different for the thousands and thousands of Hawkeyes who traveled to California for the Rose Bowl.

For some, it’s the first time they’ve been to Pasadena. For others, like Carol Black from Knoxville, Iowa, it’s a chance do it all over again—this time, with two younger generations of Hawkeye-loving family.

Black took in the Hawkeye Huddle on Wednesday, Dec. 30, with her daughter Renae (Black) Scalabrin and grandchildren Quinn, 5, and, Ty, 2.

“It’s just overwhelming,” says Black. “We’ve been to Rose Bowl games in the past. But it’s exciting to see this younger generation of Hawkeyes.”

“It’s amazing that we’re all together,” says Scalabrin, who graduated from the UI and has lived in L.A. for nearly 20 years. “It’s great to be able to experience the game with my daughter and my mom. I’m a Hawkeye fan, because my mom was a Hawkeye fan, and my daughter is a Hawkeye because I’m a Hawkeye.”

A number of friends and family will be joining Black and Scalabrin, all yearning to see the Hawkeyes end this memorable run with yet another victory.

“We’re very hopeful, but we’re proud either way,” says Scalabrin.

They’re all looking forward to sharing their love for the Hawkeyes with Quinn and Ty—and generations to come—no matter what.

Meantime, Arlene Miller says the trip to Pasadena has been a dream come true—though bittersweet. It’s a trip she hoped to make with her husband.

Miller, from North Liberty, Iowa, was one of about 3,000 Hawkeyes who made their way to Pasadena through the UI Alumni Association’s travel package.

“I’ve been a Hawkeye fan all my life,” says Miller.

But the experience is about so much more.

“It was always a dream for me and my husband—on our bucket list—to go to the Rose Bowl. Well, he passed away a couple of years ago, so we didn’t make it. I’m taking some ashes with me to the game, so he’ll be there in spirit. I get to check it off our bucket list, which is pretty amazing.”

Miller says it’s comforting to know that she’s surrounded by other Hawkeyes on the trip. And come game day, she’s ready to cheer loudly for the Hawkeyes and have a great ending to a historic season.

“It’s awesome, just awesome.”