Wishful thinking...

We are starting to establish our everyday routines around here, slowly but surely. It doesn't matter that we've still got a whole room full of boxes that need to be unpacked and sorted... that can be tackled later. I've come down with a nasty cold (it feels insane being sick when it's so hot outside), and as I lay on the couch last night feeling sorry for myself, I started looking back on pictures of our vacation to Cannon Beach, OR, the week before we moved. It was magical. And I so wish we were still there.

It was sunny and beautiful nearly every day of the 7 days we were there. The scenery was breathtaking.

We spent the week with our dear friends, and M had a blast playing with the kids. It was like a dream come true for him, having the kids around 24/7. They mostly got along well and there were few outbursts and meltdowns, for which I am so thankful.

This place is so stunningly beautiful... I was so happy we got to spend the whole week with them in such a gorgeous place.

We walked to the tide pools one morning, and it was amazing to see so many starfish, sea urchins, barnacles, and sea birds (kind of) up close (puffins!). The best part of it all was watching the kids so happy and curious while exploring nature.

Despite all the sun, it was far from balmy during our visit, and we had to layer before heading out to play on the beach. The amount of laundry we had to do was incredible, but it was totally worth it. Who needs toys, when there's water, sand, buckets, and rocks to build with (and willing Dads who get a greater kick out of building a sand castle than the toddlers do)?

Greatest vacation ever. So grateful we got the opportunity to go, and so grateful our sweet friends were able to come with us. Wish we were there.