Labor Day Weekend

Bryan needed some time at the ocean so we planned an escape to the seashore for Labor Day weekend. Friday was the football home opener so we left Saturday morning. 

It was a long drive, but we made it by mid afternoon. 

We finished watching the UW game (a sad ending) and then headed to the water.

 The initial hesitation did not last long

 and soon they were in the waves! It was quite windy and we had blowing sand to contend with, but they were happy in spite of the cold.

 Our hotel, like most of the town, has seen better days. It was shabby (and not in a chic sort of way). However, the view was delightful from our balcony.

The view ON the balcony was also...delightful.

 

Sunday we had a wonderful breakfast at a local greasy spoon and then walked about town, finding Sharky's and then scoring the requisite taffy.

 Then it was back to the beach! There was sunshine, fewer people, and less wind! We drove up the shore for several miles just because we could, then returned to park and enjoy the vehicle-free area.

 This time the wait to go in the water was even shorter!

 It's little wonder they were exhausted that evening.

 So much joy.

 The two of them flew kites like champs.

 Shan was really patient (!) and flew hers for a long time before anchoring it in the sand and letting it fly itself.

  There's something pretty wonderful about kites on a beach! And there were dozens and dozens to enjoy!

 At last, after building sandcastles, and reading, the kids managed to get BJ into the water. He did not go willingly.

 It took some serious coercion!

 but they persisted

and the three of them played in the waves happily!

 

After showers and ice cream for lunch, we wandered through what passes for downtown. Putt-putt golf was an entertaining option.

No points for style

It was a bit dicey since golf in all its forms is a cruel and deceptive game, which is difficult for mini (and not-so-mini) competitive people. Still, we had fun!

 We left in the early morning on Monday, after saying good-bye to the crashing sounds of the surf.

The kids loved the hotel because it had a huge fish tank in the lobby so we had to bid adieu to the fish as well.

 We opted to drive White Pass to avoid the traffic and saw a lovely view of Mt. Rainier. It was a great trip and we're loathe to leave summer behind!