Major Crisis!

We had a crisis in our home this morning.  This was a crisis of major proportions.  Let me show you.

Don't let the label on the canister fool you.  There was no "Happiness" in our house this morning.  That lovely little canister is where the coffee is usually held, and this morning it was empty.  This was a particularly critical morning since I am suffering from a debilitating case of BH.  I'm sure you've all suffered from it before.  Some of you may be suffering from it now. and you have most likely suffered from it this summer - yes.  BH is also known as Beach Hangover. 

My girlfriends and I spent the day at Newport Beach yesterday with the kids and this morning I'm suffering from serious symptoms of BH.

-red skin from those spots where  I missed with the SPF 50.

-bloating from too much sodium (Chex Mix and Cheeseburger Flavored Doritos -really!)

-major sand rash

-sugar crash from the Sprinkles cupcakes on the way home (I know, we should have quit while we were ahead)

-parched, dry skin

-sluggishness from oversleeping this morning 'cause I just couldn't get my body to move

Okay, now I know you're not feeling sorry for me, you're just annoyed.  I'm kind of feeling the same way. It looks like I had a bit too much of a good thing in one day.  I'm not going to apologize for it.  A day filled with friends, kids, sand, sunshine, Doritos, cupcakes and fun does not come along every day and the sweet days of summer are quickly winding down.  So, this post is short.  My next chapter about My Story will have to wait. 

The back of my legs are burnt. 

I can't sit in this chair much longer. 

I'm going to get some aloe - and a cup of coffee.

I Heart Summer

Many of you have commented on some of the pictures in my posts.  I have to confess, the best of them were taken by my daughter Rachel.  She has a real artist's eye and I love her perspective when she takes photographs.

So, in celebration of this season, here is her summer picture portfolio.  Enjoy!

I Heart Summer

Beach Days

Summer Beauty

The Nights of Summer

Back to the Beach

Our House is a Zoo!

Hot days, Hard work and Horses - a week at Calicinto Ranch

Having a Ball!

Seal it with a Heart

Oh, how sweet the light of day, And how wonderful to live in the sunshine! Even if you live a long time, don't take a single day for granted. Take delight in each light-filled hour...
Ecclesiastes 11:7 (MSG)

Aaahh!

That's the sound of me sighing, as another week comes to a close.

And what a great way to close out the week - a beach picnic with family and friends in Coronal del Mar.

Happy Birthday, Zack!

I couldn't get enough of the scenery last night, so I thought I would share my favorites with you.

So, sit back, relax and enjoy the view!

This hill looks deceptively small, but three switchbacks later - I'm gonna feel this in the morning!

Beautiful beach-side blooms!

This is why we come to the beach in the evening.

What a perfect way to end the day!

I hope your weekend is restful and blessed.

P.S.  Don't forget to nominate your personal heroes in the post "Personal Heroes - Chapter 2"

Summer Breeze

I just had a whiff of summer today. Something about the smell in the air, the light breeze blowing, the sunshine, the kids talking about end-of-year parties. All of a sudden, I can't wait.

I love summer! I know that living in Orange County we hardly endure bitter winters, but it's the 'attitude' of summer that I especially like. I know by the time August comes, I am starting to think that school sounds good, but I really hate when it's over. These are the things I like most about summer.

- the smell of suntan lotion

- the splash of pool water

- tan skin (no burn 'cause we used suntan lotion!)

- beach sand...EVERYWHERE

- loooong days

- cotton candy from Balboa Fun Zone

- sleeping in (at least now and then!)

- kids, kids, kids

- hanging out with my sister and the kids

- chillin' at the cabin

- strawberries, watermelon, corn on the cob

- barbecues (well done, anyone?)

- ice tea

- baseball games

- sandals and bare feet

- bonfires at the beach with s'mores

- sunsets

Okay, so you get the point.  There's pretty much nothing about summer that I don't like.  So, tell me, what is your favorite season and why?  Leave your comments below.