beach babies

Ben went away for a week not too long ago. The kiddos really missed him, as did I. So, when the opportunity arose to take an extended weekend vacation to Carmel, we jumped at the chance! We were so fortunate to have weather in the mid-sixties, sunny, with enormous waves! We picked up Auntie Jennie on our way, Boppa Mike came for a night, and we even got to spend some time with our family in the Carmel Valley.

Maddie's new thing is to chant, "Pose, pose," while posing for the camera. I, for obvious reasons, absolutely love this. Here she looks like a bathing pinup girl from the 50s.

Mister Motor himself, tearing through the sand with speed and ferocity. He loved playing on the beach, crawling through the sand, throwing rocks, and chasing waves with Boppa.

Not sure what's going on here, but aren't those just the most kissable lips?

On Saturday we met up with Uncle Frank, Aunt Teresa, and cousin Michael for a hike in Big Sur. Here's our view from the top!

After our picnic lunch, Maddie and Sam treated us all to a wrestling match unlike any we've ever seen! Sam actually started out by growling and then stalking his sister through the tall grass. He pounced, pushed her over, pulled her down by her pigtails, and laid on top of her! Maddie was a great sport, letting him pin her down, laughing all the while.

Plus, it wasn't long before she returned the favor. Sam was in heaven. Hilarious!

Hubba hubba! My handsome valentine and I snuck away for a Valentine's breakfast at our favorite Carmel spot: Katy's. I never deviate from my menu choice, because why mess with perfection in the form of Dungeness Crab Benedict? Ben ordered the smoked salmon/potato pancake special and we shared. Oh. My. The food was almost as wonderful as the company, my love of 13 years, hubby of 9 3/4. Happy Valentine's my lovey hubby!

I just can't get over the cuteness that is Sam in this hat. One of the few things I've actually purchased (thank you, Bridgette!), this hat just makes me happy. But not as happy as this boy. He is the snuggliest, sweetest, most pinchable little fella.

When I was a little girl, my parents would bury me in holes up to my neck whenever we went to the beach. Here we are, thirty years later, shaking our heads as Maddie wants nothing more than to be covered up with sand! She actually surprised some passers-by who didn't see her until the last minute, as we were gathered around to take pictures and laugh.

Dads & kids: Boppa Mike, Daddy, Sam & Maddie girl

The Fam: Mama, Maddie, Daddy & Sam

Is this what my future holds as the mother of a male child? Once out of his carseat, Sam made a beeline for the motorcycle and Boppa placed him on top. Look at that smile--pure joy. He looks like such a little boy here.

Maddie's first time trying goose. It goes without saying that our little Cave Girl likes it. She also tried abalone for the first time and was crazy about it. This girl never ceases to amaze us, but her expensive taste might just send us to the poorhouse!

Uncle Frankie shows Maddie a thing or two on the Takamine. Later on, cousin Michael taught her how to blow a trumpet.

Our last trip to the beach: Sam & Maddie overlooking Carmel Beach.

There is a room in the Carmel house that is FAB-U-LOUS for picture taking. Unfortunately, the kiddos were dirty, tired and not too excited about posing by the time I got my camera out. This is my favorite of the series.

Thanks Carmel! We love you and we hope to return soon!