Up here in FAR northern CA we have to look at the calendar to know whether it's Summer, or Spring or Fall for that matter. Seems it's always 55 to 60 degrees and overcast. Still, not a lot of people can drive 15 minutes and be on a beach like this
It was a really low tide this morning. This rock is probably almost always underwater.
Isn't that starfish something? All purple and fat and fleshy. A lot more like Patrick on Spongebob than anything we ever saw in a shell shop. This rock was teeming with life
I'd never seen anything quite like it.
Caleb tried with all his might to pull some off but those mussels had muscle! Now I know why we've seen them using a chisel & hammer in the movies. :-)
When I saw the familiar tree-studded rock off in the not too distant ocean it reminded me of the time Caleb had stood in the same spot with his young father 7.5 years ago
Today I said, "Caleb, let me take your picture here. Your father would probably like to see it since he stood in this same spot with you when you were little." Here is the pose that he struck
You may remember that I talked a little about Caleb's relationship with his father last Christmas. I just found it so touching and somewhat sad that he struck (in his mind) his sweetest possible pose, as if to say through pictures to a man he doesn't know, "Please, like me!"
Then we have Madison. Little oddball that she is :-) Doing her version of 'Boot Scootin' Boogie'
LOL! Caleb told her "I think they sell something at the pet store for that problem!"
It's always so grounding for me to spend time standing in front of the ocean. Really helps put things in perspective. We promised to come back often this summer. We also decided to pick one rock, preferably a heart shaped rock, as a keepsake for every time we go on an adventure. I look forward to seeing our collection at the end of the summer. :-)
Your day at the beach was precious with the kids, the purple starfish, and the heart shaped rocks.
I went back and read your post about Caleb and his dad. It's such a sweet story, but sad, too.
You're a sweet Grandma!
Posted by: Amanda | June 19, 2009 at 09:03 AM
What a great post and such a great idea to start the rock collection - can't wait to see it at the end of the summer. I also thought it was interesting how both Caleb and his dad posed with their heads to the side. Caleb is lucky to have you!
Posted by: Heather | June 17, 2009 at 07:17 AM
I went back and reas too. My daughter and sister both work in a prison. There are so many young fathers in for the same reason.They have that program on this side of the country too. You handled it perfectly! Beautiful kids!
Posted by: lesthook | June 15, 2009 at 04:20 PM
I just went back and read your Christmas story. Caleb is so very blessed to have you in his life. As a teacher, I have quite a few students who's parents are in the same situation; and only want to know that their parent loves them.
Blessings and hugs to you all.
Nancy
Posted by: Nancy | June 15, 2009 at 01:05 PM
You are a totally awesome grandma. Thanks for sharing that tender moment and the story behind it. wow.
the heart rocks..............*heavy, heavy sigh*
Posted by: Des | June 15, 2009 at 10:19 AM
I love, love, love the rock idea. My son is so into rocks right now, maybe I can talk him into that.
Posted by: paddywack designs | June 15, 2009 at 06:37 AM
What a wonderful beach and love the idea of the rock collection. The kiddos are so sweet and I can imagine that experiencing the beach with them is totally the best!
Posted by: Barbara | June 15, 2009 at 06:12 AM
That is one cool beach! I've never seen a real starfish or any ocean creatures for that matter as I live in Northern Alberta and have to drive over an hour just to find a lake :(
Posted by: rose | June 14, 2009 at 11:33 PM
What a gorgeous beach...and I love that starfish...I've never seen one like that!
Posted by: sherri | June 14, 2009 at 10:54 PM
It has been so chilly here, very weird for June! Too cool to sit on the back porch without a jacket. I'm sure we will look back in fondness when the heat finally hits.
Posted by: Kathi D | June 14, 2009 at 10:24 PM
ooh this looks like so much fun, what a great combination - kids and the beach. I can only dream at this stage of when it will be warm enough in the southern hemisphere for beach walking in bare feet! Have fun!!
Posted by: Shiree Johnston | June 14, 2009 at 10:18 PM
What a nice day...I have to admit that the butt scooting and comment made me laugh. You have sweet grandchildren.
Posted by: Dandelion Quilts | June 14, 2009 at 06:50 PM
What a wonderful grandmother you are. So lucky that you all have each other. xo
Posted by: pam | June 14, 2009 at 06:48 PM
Your photos are gorgeous! We haven't been to the ocean since the kids were little. I think it's time to go back. :)
Posted by: Diane Duda | June 14, 2009 at 06:44 PM
I love the rock collection and the wonderful flashback for Caleb. I love the beach, too! Thanks for sharing!
Posted by: dotti white | June 14, 2009 at 05:57 PM
I miss the ocean so much and you have set me off on a homesickness binge...but, do not feel bad as I am easily pushed. Caleb's story is touching to the point of tears - he is lucky to have you in his life, so lucky. ~Kelly
Posted by: Kelly | June 14, 2009 at 05:56 PM
LOVE the heart shaped rocks! I looked everywhere this past week on our little vacation on the Oregon Coast. No heart shaped rocks.
Posted by: Jodi | June 14, 2009 at 05:45 PM