We just got back from the ocean with my husband's family. My favorite parts were actually playing in the ocean. Emma and I got caught in a rip tide that took us way, WAY out to sea. Shark Bait territory-far. We didn't realize how far out we were with our boogie boards until niece Abby came paddling out. We tried kicking straight in, with no progress, and had to angle in to shore so we weren't fighting against the current. My bright green crocs (no, I did not throw them away yet, knowing they would be perfect for the beach) attracted some nibbles on my legs. It was like getting kissed by so many fish lips.
Ghost crabbing comes in second! Husband John has invested in enough head lamp flashlights for all the kids to use. If you go down on the beach after dark you see hundreds of various sized white or sand-colored crabs. They must think they are invisible (they are during the day) but their movement when you walk towards them and their waving stalk eyes give them away. It kind of creeps you out to see how many there really are.
No bad sunburns, thanks to ruthless spreading of sunscreen and cool swim shirts. Sara L's guacamole was perfect (must watch her make it. Garlic and fresh cilantro being big parts of her secret). Watching "Brigham City" together had a jump-for-fear part that made us laugh, and I was moved at the emotion at the end of the film and the "he who is without sin throw the first stone" theme. I missed the chance we've had other years to go to church together because of the local units having Stake Conference (I was too late anyway, taking train down-which was also a cool part of the trip!).
We have gone into Washington DC in the past to see the fireworks from the Mall. Spectacular! LOUD! Fun family reunions, meeting and sharing snacks until dark. Uncle Blen got his gourmet reputation from the wonderful things he would bring: French bread & hummus, strange olives, tasty desserts. Good memories. I almost called Jen & John to see what their plans were for tonight ... but I took a nap instead. Catching up from a long week of little sleep. I get grouchy tired.
