Beach Bums

We are definitely beach bums around here. Give us the surf, sand, and sun, and we are happy as clams.

Every year we make a pilgrimage to the Jersey shore. Once or twice we've been able to stay a few days or even a whole week, but most years we just go for the day. It's about a 2 1/2 hour drive, if you are fortunate enough to not hit traffic. It's not a bad day trip, really. We leave early and come home late, and the kids always feel like it's a magical day. 

This year we brought our pseudo-child and special friend, Brittany. She spends time hanging out with us, and the kids adore her. She's way more fun for them than we are. I mean, she actually jumps over the waves. We just stand there. :) She spent hours sitting in the waves and building sand castles.

Look how they make the exact same face. :)

It was a little cool, so we were thankful we brought along plenty of towels and snacks.

Truly, he's always happy there are blankets and snacks.

The boys LOVE boogie boarding. Little Bear is actually pretty good at it, and he's not afraid at all. In fact, the rougher the waves, the happier he is.

It was a beautiful day but a little on the cool side. So the kids rotated what they were doing pretty often. One of their favorites is sitting in the waves. They made up some crazy game to go with it.

Throwing sand at the waves will definitely make them stop.

When it comes to the sand, you can't help but bury someone...

Or making drip castles.

The beach is always a good place for pictures...

And checking out God's creation.

After a long day in the sun, we hit the boardwalk. First stop was Manco and Manco's for pizza. We also had some crab fries and hit up Johnson's for their fresh caramel popcorn. Now that's good stuff. 

It's always sad to leave, but, OCNJ, we'll see you again next year!

Now THAT'S precious.