Beach fun 101

So yesterday we decided to go to the beach spur of the moment. I packed a quick lunch, threw everything in the stroller and off we went! I always wish I could somehow snap a photo of all of us strolling down there, just for my own memory of what we must look like, Gracia in the sling the kids in the stroller....crazy Mom pushing these little ones....











I think it was the best time I've had taking the kids to the beach by myself ever. It was so fun we stayed for almost 4 hours! They are all getting to the age that is comfortable for me to actually be with them without worrying (too much) about them getting sucked away! Jonah is so good at keeping his head afloat and doggy paddling, this summer will be great for teaching him how to kick and paddle. And Ellie has finally gotten over her fear of the water. It's amazing to see her playing around in the shore break! And Gracia, she is the one I worry the most about, she is so quick and loves the water so much I have to be very watchful, without fear she just rushes the shore break, my little big wave surfer!




I had the time to just sit and watch them and take photos without barking orders at them. It was so peaceful! Not that I was lounging and kicking back but it was honestly the best time I've had with them. Everyone was happy and content and enjoying God's creation for what it is. We even took a little walk along the tide pools and collected tons of sea snails and hermit crabs! Love those things! They are so cute and so brave, just like my little Ellie who quickly holds her hand out for a hermit crab experience!









Ellie made a new game jumping from a rock into the shore break. Of course Jonah joined in and then Gracie wanted a little bit of the action...she doesn't like to be left out you know! It was so neat to see her bravery and comfort with the water coming out. We've waited so long for that!

I am so excited about school ending soon! Dave's last official day is next Tuesday! We so desperately need some family time. AND Dave and I really need some one on one time, it's been too long since we've had any real time together. I really look forward to that! I so wish we could steal away and take a little vacation together but that won't happen for a long long time. Until we our out of debt!



There are a lot of changes coming up soon and some I am struggling not to worry about. His online teaching gig is up, they no longer have a position for him. And there are some other opportunities for him, which I'll share when they are official. But it's still going to be a significant pay cut for us. Not to mention the teacher's contract for next year will include a pay cut and a benefits raise! So that makes us even more negative. BUT......I know the promises of Jer. 29:11. Isaiah 41:10, John 14:1. 1 Peter 5:7 and so many more. God knows the plans He has for our family, we need not fear, for He is with us and He cares for us so much we can give Him all our worries so our hearts will not be troubled. This is what I need to concentrate on instead of mulling over the possibilities and trying to fix the situation ourselves.


Casting all our cares on Him will bring us peace.....