Ahhh, ocean, how I have missed you!

So one of the days in California (September 24th) we decided to take a break from the rides and go to the beach. With Jared growing up in San Diego and me in Connecticut, the ocean was always a big part of our lives. These many years in Utah have caused a hole in our hearts that can only be filled with sand, salt air, seagulls and surf. Unfortunately our kids don't have the appreciation that we do for the ocean and beach, but we will take any opportunity to instill it. The weather turned really warm the day we went to Aliso Beach - mid to upper 70s and sunny. It was perfect. We arrived at high tide and stayed until the tide went all the way out and started its way back. Yes, it was long day and we all got sunburnt - but it was WELL worth it! The kids played in the water, built sand structures and generally had a great beach day. We saw sea lions and pelicans frolicking just off shore, and, of course, the seagulls everywhere. The reason that we drove all the way down to Aliso Beach instead of going to one of the closer beaches in Los Angeles was because Robert Deacon told us it had the best tide pools. He was right. The tide pools were the highlight of the day - giant star fish, crabs, mussels, sea anemones, sea urchins, etc. Incredible! Here, again, is just a smattering of pictures of our great day at the beach.