The Shore

Another favorite activity of ours is playing on the beach. This year it was all about hauling large rocks around, building dams, and digging trenches in the sand. Derek and I simply watched our boys play. We talked about the stage our family is in right now, and how we want to freeze time right here. These are the years I think I'll want to revisit the most. When playing at the beach is enough. When it doesn't matter what their friends think. When they still want to be with us.

But since we can't freeze time, I guess we just enjoy each day that's given to us. Make lots of memories together. Take time to slow down and realize it's the little moments that make life big. Like playing at the shore. Like watching our boys carry rocks half their size, excited to build dams in the sand.

We had a fun week together after all. I'm glad we squeezed this trip into our summer. We rode bikes, played frisbee in the dark, popped popcorn and watched an episode of Dukes of Hazzard. Ginger had fun too. :) We witnessed a mishap at the dock and the boys learned a lesson I doubt they'll forget. Lesson learned: make sure your boat strap is strong and secure, or else it could tear apart when you're backing your boat trailer into the water. Then your boat will crash off your trailer and land on the boat ramp. Those poor people! It made a strong enough impression on Aaron that he prayed for them at bedtime.

We came home in time to pack for yet another trip. The last one of the summer...

Some funnies before I go:

Aaron planted a marigold plant for me last spring, but he has trouble remembering what it's called. The other day he pointed to his plant and said, "That goldener sure is doing good!"

I laugh every time Aaron says "handlebars." He doesn't know why I laugh at that--but it's because of the way he pronounces it. It sounds like "hayne-del-bars." Sometimes we'll be talking and he'll randomly interject the word "handlebars" just to make me laugh. Last night he even did it during his prayer. :)

Aaron frequently tells me he shouldn't cost anything because, "I can't help being born!"

Finally, during the past month our boys have a new favorite word. They shout it, say it, talk about it, and use it in all sorts of ways. The word is...ugly. Here's what I hear around the house:

"UGLY!!!"

"You're so ugly the mirror cries."

"Ug-gl-y!"

"You're ugly!"

"You're so ugly goldfish don't smile back!"

And that brings us to the end of this post! :)