Carpinteria Visit Again

Walt was able to get a couple extra days off after the July 4th holiday. We took the opportunity to make another quick trip to Carpinteria to visit his mom and sister. This time we invited Kiele, our niece, along too. Why hadn't we thought of that earlier!? All in all it was a quick but fun and family filled trip. 

Grandma and Aunt Emma taught Carley and Kiele how to knit while we were visiting. 

Kiele, Carley and I went to the Montecito Fourth of July parade.

About ready to hit up "fourth beach" on the Fourth.

Seems that everyone decided to go to the beach on the holiday. I haven't seen it that crowded in a long time!

Someone always has to get buried. I think that is an unofficial beach rule. 

Check out the starts of a giant fortress behind the kids. It was pretty amazing by the time they were done. 

I think my mermaid Carley is pretty amazing though. 

Kiele and Josh managed to swim all the way out to the floating dock. It's much harder to fight the current than expected, which leads to a much longer swim than anticipated. 

The kids had it to themselves for just a little bit but soon were swarmed by lots of fellow swimmers. 

We went back to fourth beach the next day and rented boogie boards.

The beach was back to the weekday norm. Far fewer people. 

The sun wasn't out but it didn't stop the kids from hitting the waves.

I couldn't resist the fun and joined them. 

Seeing the big smiles and great laughs was the best.

Okay, I know I'm a little biased but I think the Thiels make some good looking kids.

Family photo op after we're packed up and ready to head out has become a tradition. 

Gee, I wonder where Josh gets it.  Like father, like son?

Silly face picture is the best! Good times. 

On the way home we stopped at Fort Tejon on top of the Grapevine. 

It was the perfect place for a picnic lunch before more hours and hours of being locked in a car. 

The dogs were happy about it. 

Another great family trip. I love summer.