the beach after 6:00 pm!

Higgins had a vet appointment near the shore late this afternoon, so we took the opportunity to visit the beach in the relatively cooler air, smaller crowds, and fabulous lighting. our first visit this year to the sandy, splashy, activity center!

love to take happy snaps there (don't love the sand ... but that's just my hangup ...) ... and i got to take some happy snaps today with a certain black fluffy fella who's dad is convinced that he's wearing a gorilla suit. :o\

it does. a little. doesn't it?

but I digress ... pictures from the beach!

he walked a little, ran for a moment or two ... then watched the kids the rest of the time. we were thinking the shots he had may have tuckered him out, but the truth is, he is so passive, and so, so easy going...

of course, the kidliewinks found the water quickly, and glided right on in (surprise surprise) splash shots are among my favorites.

they played, giggled, swam, smiled for me when they saw the camera, and just let loose. the surf was gentle, and low, and really awesome for releasing some energy. it was also loud enough to keep from hearing them clearly, so they had their own time, relating, harrassing, and enjoying each other. and no referree whistle for me. :) besides, boogie boards, and thick, wet sand redirects your focus when you need to.

not to mention a vast ocean right in front of you.

tonight, as i kissed them, they both told me that we were at the beach "far too short" and "can we go back again for a whole day maybe?" and there i thought they loved the pool more .... change of scenery, and surf. does it every time when you're 8 and 6.

:)