Wednesday, March 26, 2014

Sunday Afternoon

An escape to the craggy California coast is always an adventure.  The salty cool air fills our lungs, and the crashing of the waves fill our ears.


It inspires "rock" ballet.


We revel in the freedom and beauty of nature.


It helps us find balance.


Rockin' it!


Relaxin'


On tippy toes as the cold tide surges onto the sandy shore.


Partners in crime.


Artistry


Strength


Laughter.  

Never forget the laughter.


Monday, March 17, 2014

A day without school

Kade, Chayse, and I ventured to the Science Academy together on a vacation day (though I suspect more learning occurred than on an average school day)!

The aquarium captured our attention for hours as we searched for marine life in each exhibit.  Kade practiced with the different camera settings until he was able to clearly photograph (through the glass and with crazy lighting) a few of his favorite things.


The mandarin fish's unique, colorful patterns were fun to watch.


The ocean floor is always full of unsuspecting life...like sea urchins and sea stars!


The tropical rainforest held lots of hidden surprises!


Like this vine snake waiting for dinner!  He far too vine-like for my comfort!


The moray eel lurked in the rocks!


The albino Alligator was easy to spot!


Tree frogs come in lots of colors, but these translucent blue frogs were unique!


The stingrays and sharks circled the tank as the kids watched.

Kade and Chayse loved exploring all the habitats, and I enjoyed watching their enthusiasm about their discoveries. 

Kade did ask afterwards if we could visit the ocean again when the tide was out--he still prefers to explore the natural setting!  Myself? I prefer some of the animals to be safely behind glass with no surprises!



Monday, March 10, 2014

When you were little...

Cruising through the Santa Cruz mountains on a rainy Saturday afternoon, Daddy, Kiahra, and Chayse were seeking adventure and chatting.

Chayse:  "Daddy, when you were little, what dog did you want?"

Daddy: "There weren't dogs when I was a kid."

Chayse: "Oh."

She starts thinking.  Then she looks at Kiahra, smiling, "Wait!  Daaaaaddd!"

************

The following evening, all the kids were hanging out in the family room with their dad.

Chayse: "Nikela, did you have to take state tests on the computer when you were in the 3rd grade?"

Nikela: "Nope."

Chayse:  "Daddy did you have to take tests on the computer when you were in the 3rd grade?"

Daddy: "There weren't computers when I was a kid."

Chayse: "Oh no!  I'm NOT falling for that again!!"