Why We Love California

In the past, to me, the beach meant being too hot, sweaty and sandy. But now that the kids are getting older and LOVING it, I love it too. Seeing the wonder and awe in Levi's baby blues (even though he clutches us for dear life) is reason enough to go. And then there's Sullivan's complete amazement in seeing the ocean for the first time. And Titus and Zane... well, they just run around on the beach like island natives in paradise. It really is a kick, and this particular day was the best. This is what summer is all about.

The Beach Boys

Thanks, Babe!

This canopy made a day at the beach truly enjoyable for me. We were able to take breaks from the sun, which is wonderful, even when it's only 75 degrees. We had to keep moving our camp back towards the rocks, though, due to big waves and high tides. Fortunately, none of our stuff got washed out to sea, like some of our beach neighbors'.

Beach Baby

"Tasty Grub and Grog"

That is Pizza Port's motto. And it's true (though I've never tried the grog). Their pizza is amazing with a beer-batter crust. In fact, we go to Solana Beach, just so we can eat at Pizza Port. This was the most fun, though, bringing the pizza to the beach. I don't even think the kids missed the video games in the restaurant. We topped it off with root beer and homemade cookies. As my brother would say, that's "good lovin'."

All beached out

Miss Sulli thought it was hilarious to be in her playpen on the beach. I thought she would never go to sleep. She laughed and giggled and rolled forEVER. And then, all of a sudden, I looked over at her quietness and saw her flat on her face, fast asleep. So cute.

Boogie Board

I can already see where this is going, and I don't like it. Boogie boarding today, surfing tomorrow. Zane's growing up too fast.

New friends

While Zane was out in the ocean with his Daddy, Titus and Levi played with a little boy from Georgia named Brooks. I loved listening to him talk with his southern accent. Even more, I enjoyed everything he had to tell us - all very informative. We learned that a dolphin can kill a shark "because it has a bigger brain." Also, "sharks are so crazy about food, they don't know what's going on." (That sounds a little bit like me.) Anyways, he was a very cute boy and taught our boys how to make sand dolphins.

This little guy just wanted to see what was going on - or maybe what people were eating - today.

The perfect day

It was finally time to head home. We really didn't have a choice because our little camp was getting dangerously close to being washed away! What a wonderful time we had today.

Last swim lesson of the summer

SURF'S UP!!! Notice Titus in a typical "tough guy" pose. :) This kid always keeps us laughing.

Every week of lessons ends with a fun day where the kids get to go down the slide and have their lessons together if they wish. Here is Titus, relishing the slide!

Zane goes in on his tummy.

Bravely, Titus also goes in head-first.

Here is Titus being... Titus! He was telling Zane and Courtney one of his very (and numerous) funny stories. I would not be surprised if he is a comedian some day.

Here's my little punkin, watching her brothers' last lesson.

14 Months!

OK, the "spring vegetables with brown rice" coming out of her mouth is a little gross, but this is a big milestone for our princess! It finally happened - somewhere between 13 and 14 months... Sulli eats now! She doesn't eat everything, but she loves baby veggies, fruits and yogurt and pieces of Cheerios. She even likes In 'N Out french fries. I guess she had to grow up some time. She also loves to stand, but needs a little help.

Wedding Day!!!

The Church

Bruce and Cody's wedding took place at First Presbyterian church in downtown Portland. The sanctuary was completed in 1890, and it is the most beautiful church we have ever seen, this side of Europe. There are 37 types of wood inside and the stained glass is breathtaking. What an unforgettable place for a wedding.

Stunning Couple

Cody was absolutely gorgeous in her wedding gown, and Bruce looked like a million bucks in his tux. These pictures were taken right before the wedding. We were asked not to take any during the ceremony. More than anything, the love between these two shone so brightly throughout the church, and the Spirit was so evident in every word spoken. It was a perfect union.