Beaching it!

We traveled to Southern California  again this year  because we just love the beach!  We tried the San Clemente beach this year. There were lots of families there so we fit right in, except for maybe our swimsuits!?  Scott couldn't get enough of the water and body surfed at every opportunity.  Camille  and I liked to swim too, but we weren't as brave as dad.  Carter mostly wanted to go back to the motel to swim and watch TV, but since his parents weren't cooperative he learned to boogie board.  Carter takes after his dad and soon was riding the waves all the way in.  Ryan and Bethany loved the waves if they had lots of hands to hold.  I decided after listening to Bethany that squealing must be half the fun!  We ate lots of take out and sandy junk food.  The kids thought breakfast at the Hampton Inn was "the best" and usually got the big eye every morning.

Sandy snacks anyone?  The seagulls at Crystal Cove state beach didn't seem to mind.  They got into our chips and unopened cookies.  Luckily, Carter took it upon himself to protect the snacks and save our food from the seagulls.

Exploring the tide pools at Crystal Cove State Beach

Super Ryan!

Showing off our sun burns

We missed low tide but were able to see some neat critters anyway.  It was fun to watch the big wave crash on the rocks, but Bethany found it rather intimidating.  I would too if I were less than 4 ft tall...

A beautiful purple star fish.

This interesting blob is a sea slug. Ryan and Scott picked it up and said it felt like holding jello.

I'm really glad that it's against the law to take any of these "friends" home.