Last Day of Summer

On Monday we were able to go to Newport. We weren't sure how the weather would be and even thought about not going because we thought it might rain. We decided the day before to go anyway since it was the last day of summer for us. The day ended up being perfect, probably because we didn't have any major expectations. The weather was amazing with no wind and a lot of sunshine. It was one of those rare beautiful coastal days.

We started out on the peer crabbing and caught 5 starfish, a lot of crab, and one major dungeness keeper.

It was baby Huck's first time on the coast and it was a perfect day to expose him to everything. This photo proved it was short sleeve weather.

It was also the season for jelly fish. The kids had a great time spotting them in the water.

Our little good luck charm in his crab hat.

Yummy dinner.

There were also a lot of sea lions and harbor seals that were hanging around and the kids had fun spotting them. Little Miss wanted to pet one, but none obliged her.

After crabbing we traveled over to the Chowder Bowl for lunch.

For dessert we got their marionberry cobbler with ice cream. We gave a little to Huck and he started crying when we took it away.

Afterwards the kids wanted to go to the beach. We hadn't been prepared for nice weather. We didn't even have towels or a change of clothes, but we decided to go anyway.

Baby Huck's first time on the beach.

The kids had so much fun playing in the sand, catching fish in the tide pools, and running into the water.

The day was so perfect you didn't feel like you were on the Oregon Coast.

It was a great way to end summer.

Half Birthday

Today is Huck's half birthday. He is officially 6 months old. He has such a sweet personality. He is trying so hard to sit up and he has almost got it. He is also making a lot more sounds, as evidenced in the two videos below. Here are a few memories of him at 6 months.

Social - loves his brother and sister (if they are in the room he strains to watch them)

Food - loves food (peas, beans, sweet potatoes, applesauce, melons,

peaches, rice cereal, plum juice)

Firsts - has noticed animals for the first time, laughs at dogs

Sleeping Schedule - for the most part sleeps through the night (10-12 hours)

Naps - one big nap in the day

Personality - very mellow and easy going, rarely cries, goes with the flow

Enjoys - swinging in the hammock outside, taking walks, chewing on hair (loves it)

Belnap Hot Springs

Last weekend we were able to meet two friends at our favorite place. We love going to Belnap Hot Springs. I have been wanting to invite some friends and have a potluck dinner in the Secret Garden. We were lucky because both of the friends we invited had never been there before. It was fun to watch their faces when they came around the corner into the Secret Garden. You should have seen the looks on the kids faces. It looks like a wonderland to play in.

We had to get a group shot of all the kiddos. Not an easy task.

It was difficult to get the kids to want to sit down and eat. They just wanted to explore and play.

The kids had such a good time hanging out with each other.

As each family arrived the kids got more excited when they realized that more of their friends were there to play.

The light started to fade but we were able to get some pictures of the two youngest cutie patooties.

We had a fun night and a good time exploring, playing and enjoying good company.

Kids vs. Wild

I don't know if you have seen the show Man vs. Wild, but our family likes it. Last week we went to our favorite fishing place. Within minutes of showing up Midge said we need to create shelter and fire. Maybe we have been watching a little too much Bear Grylls. No need to worry they didn't try to drink any urine or eat the fish raw.

Here they are building their boat.

Here is their fire.

Lately Little Miss when you ask her to give you a smile gives you this. What fun.

The kids even made beds with pillows made out of leaves.

In the above shot they are trying to make fire.