The Waves in Santa Cruz

He has been asking to go to the ocean for months.  It was what he really hoped that Santa would deliver.  Well, we finally made it happen, and I know he can't wait to go back.

Larger Than Life

Last month we went to California for a quick family visit.  The trip was packed solid with activities, but one of the highlights was certainly seeing the big trees.

Last Day of School 2015-2016

Another year in the books.

This year we have really seen the little guy mature and man has he grown since August.  He must be nearly a foot taller, I swear.  He carries himself with a little more confidence, more strength, more independence, more determination.  

We've reached the cheesy grins - wide mouthed, teethy smiles with eyes closed.  I love it.

Summer breaks are different when you aren't a kid, and they are certainly different in families with two full-time, day-shift working parents, but I can tell you I'm so excited for the summer regardless.  Looking forward to long nights, lots of swimming, cookouts, playing, walks, parks, the list goes on.

And just as quickly as this past year has gone, I know summer will go just as quickly.  It will be tomorrow when we are back on the porch, chalkboard for 2016-2017, but until then, we will live and breath the carefree warmth of summertime youth.

Flashback to 2014-2015 last day of school pictures.