Friday after work, we packed up and headed for cooler weather.
117 degrees – Phoenix
74 degrees – Santa Monica
It's not brain surgery…
We woke up early (well, the kids woke up early and we were stuck shared a room so there we were…)
Yes, I'm hiding behind Julia to look skinnier. Tell ya what. Anytime I am less than a size 16 I'll take a pic. Great photography tip – using your children as props to hide behind.
I forgot to pack Brian's swimsuit.
But never fear! Santa Monica has the cutest shopping malls with underground parking everywhere. I felt horrible that I forgot something.
Do you do that? Do you have these incredible expectations of yourself and just beat yourself up when something goes wrong?
Yeah, me too. So don't worry, you are not alone! We all fall down.. and we get back up and make great memories anyways!
Santa Monica. Lovely.
The Pier. Iconic.
Happy Feet. Very happy feet.
Happy family. Very happy family.
The beach was a very dangerous place for me. Lots of cute shoes. Lots of cute babies.
This little guy adored Julia. I would have taken him home…. except for the kidnapping charges and all.
And just for you… Our model poses. Watch out Project Runway. We have mad skillz.
Have a great day!
And if you are not quite the size you like… it's ok. Take pictures anyways. Stop waiting until you look just right… the time is now! Capture those memories while you can. If I can do it, anyone can!

Lovely. I’ve never been to CA. I’d love to visit. These pictures make me want to even more! Someday…
How fun! I know that I expect a lot during holidays, vacations, or anything I want to be fun which is always a problem for me because I end up being disappointed. I am glad that you had such a great time! Thank you for praying for me and my housing needs.
I swear you must have read my latest blog entry because I posted all the reasons why I DIDN’T put a picture of me in a bathing suit on it during our recent vacation/camping trip.
Came across your blog via PW. Hope you enjoyed your trip to my neck of the woods.
What awesome photos! You look like you had fun! I take pictures of myself but I’ll admit, I will ONLY do it if I feel like my makeup, outfit and um size are looking good at that moment, lol. I should probably not be so “vain” and do it more with the kids.