Last Few Weeks Of Summer!

We've been trying to squeeze in a few more family day trips, before Beth heads back to school next week. We have been planning a trip to the zoo for a long time now, but unfortunately I wasn't feeling well all last week, so Dan took the girls by himself, while I stayed home with Brian. The plan was for both Brian and I to take a nap that afternoon, but unfortunately Brian was not in full agreement with that plan. However, the girls had a wonderful time, and Dan took a few pictures of their adventures. Erin had visited this zoo a few months ago with her cousin Alyssa, so she was able to act as tour guide for her big sisters.

Then, we took a trip down memory lane with Nana, visiting the small (and I do mean small) town on the ocean where Nana grew up. Time stopped about 50 years ago in this little seaside village, and I was amazed to see that the town library is still not automated. The circulation staff was happily stamping due dates on the book cards, and instead of the online catalog to which we've grown accustomed, there was an "old fashioned" card catalog. The girls loved seeing the quaint Children's Department, where I spent many happy hours as a little girl, on my summer vacations at my Grandparents' house. After a quick lunch at a ocean-side restaurant, where Brian was less-than-cooperative, we headed for the beach. All four kids enjoyed splashing in the crystal-clear water, jumping the waves, and digging in the sand. Brian has no fear of the water whatsoever, but seemed disappointed not to find any live crabs on which to munch.

And now, we're busy getting haircuts, school supplies, and back-to-school shoes. Amy and Erin have a few more weeks of vacation left, but Beth is counting down the days until she begins first grade!