On the Road Again

When last semester ended and summer vacation began, I knew we were going to have an awesome time together. I didn't know just how packed and exciting this summer would prove to be, though.  

We've been fortunate enough to have some really fun experiences this summer, like seeing Sesame Street Live, visiting the San Francisco Bay Area with my sister, hanging out with my other sister while she is here with my niece for two weeks and last week, my entire family went to the coast for three nights of fun on the beach. 

We took turns making meals for everyone (14 of us!) and they were all so delicious!

"Mine! Mine! Mine!"

 These two water bugs had so much fun playing in the surf together!

 Liam absolutely loved playing in the sand and talks about the beach every day now.

 Maggie and her cousin Nate love to play together.  They are so sweet to watch!

 I love this picture of Magdalena and her cousin, Amelia.  Amelia is nine months older than Maggie and they play pretend nonstop when they are together.  And they are hilarious.

Tide Pools!

Lots of people checking out the tide pools.

 S'mores at night around the firepit.

This picture of Mark and Liam is one of my favorite pictures ever.  I love those guys.

The rest of the pictures are all from an evening the four of us spent at Glass beach and it was so perfect and magical.  We had a wonderful time looking at all the sea glass.

The beach vacation might be over, but another vacation is starting tomorrow.  For me, at least. The kids and Mark are staying home as I embark on what I see as a great adventure.  I'm going on a 12 hour roadtrip (both ways)  to Seattle with a friend, to stay with a mutual friend of ours for four nights.  We have no definite plans, exceptt to see new things, take lots of pictures and do whatever we want.  I have already expressed my desire to have a cocktail at an inappropriate time and/or place, and to all go somewhere just to sit quietly and draw or paint or heck, just sit quietly. 

Although, with these ladies, I don't think there is going to be too much quiet time.  I expect many more "wet your pants from laughing and breaking into song and dance and hey, let's do impressions" times than quiet times on this trip.  And that makes me happy.  I'm taking my camera and laptop and really hoping I'll be able to blog a little on the trip.  

So, I guess, next time you see me, I'll be in Seattle!