Archives from the beach

Last night we booked our flights back to Southampton. We are all anxious to head back to the beach to squeeze out some more summer before school starts back up in September.

If you wondered why I hadn't posted any pictures from our last trip, it was because I didn't bring my camera. Boo! Luckily, Danielle did and what a treat. She is a professional photographer and that is evident in the pictures she sent me last night.

The beach in Southampton is serene. It is unlike beaches in so many cities that are littered with huge hotels and other commercial buildings. The downside is that the water is COLD. Icy cold, especially early in the summer. I have to say, I rarely venture in and most definitely I only get in up to my waist.

Our trip in June was wet. It rained for much of our first week. And, while the weather was somewhat disappointing the girls didn't really seem to mind. They were excited to be in a new house exploring new things.

Every June in Southampton, there is a carnival. It is an old school carnival -- with hawkers shouting to come play their game. We took the kids last year and it was a hit. One evening, it had finally cleared up and so as a special treat we ventured down to the carnival. Ellery was tall enough to ride a "roller coaster." After decending the first hill, her fearful look turned into shear elation. She loved it!

Both kids rode the carousel -- multiple times.

We capped off the evening with a game and, lucky for us, we won a goldfish - quickly named Grape. Sadly, Grape lived a short life - just over a week.

When the weather isn't quite right for the beach, the kids also love going to the farm to visit the animals. There were piglets this year. Rather smelly but enchanting at the same time.

Most days wind down with some poolside dining. It is so nice to be able to eat outside in the summer while wearing a sweatshirt.

I can't wait to get back....