Fourth of July

We were really excited to spend the Fourth in San Diego. We decided we would spend the day at the beach, grill out for dinner and watch Legoland's fireworks from the end of our street. 

The plan was to load the car with all of beach stuff early, drive down to the beach, leave the car there and walk back to the cottage. Well, us and the rest of Carlsbad had that idea because when we got up at 6:00 am we could see that the beach parking was already full. On to Plan B. Which we didn't have. No biggie. 

We decided instead to start the day by heading to Ocean Side and spending an hour or so there then coming back and thinking of a Plan B. 

I had to get a picture of them in their flag shirts.

Reese is actually looking at the neighborhood cat. He came by to say Hi and Reese was so excited that she literally scared him up the tree. 

She's not taking her eyes off him

In case we forgot there was a cate up there

Last year I started yet another tradition... our family beach foot picture. 

That was first on my agenda before anyone when out to play.

Jax of course had to wear his swim suit, because he was getting wet, no matter how chilly it was. 

Once the foot picture was taken he was off!

Brian joined him shortly

Reese and I hung out for awhile.

But I'm only good enough for a so long then she needs her Daddy and Bubba.

I probably should have put her in a swim suit. 

After lunch and a nap for Reese we headed to the 'real' beach. 

As we were driving back from Ocean Side Brian said, "I wish we had one of those big tired wagons. Then it would be easy to pile everything on it and walk to the beach."

Well, his wish came true! As he was looking through the big Rubbermaid tubs full of beach gear he came across a wagon! We had hit the 4th of July jackpot! 

He loaded it up and walked down to the beach with Jaxon while Reese was sleeping. 

Then the four of us headed back a bit later. 

Yep. Even I pulled the wagon. I do do CrossFit after all.
:)

Now loads of beach pictures!

The day was ABSOLUTELY BEAUTIFUL! 

I never thought I would love a family picture with me
in a bathing suit, but I do!
This is my favorite!

After several hours of water, sand and sun we headed back to the cottage, grilled out, put Reesey to bed and enjoyed a nice evening with s'mores and fireworks. 

It was a perfect 4th! Can't wait to do it again next year!

The Greatest Show on Earth & The 4th

Last weekend was an exciting weekend! We went to see the Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey circus and we celebrated the 4th of July.

Brian opted out of the circus this time since we were just saw it a few months ago, but my mom was in! Actually, it was her idea. Of course Jaxon was excited. I mean, the circus means cotton candy, popcorn, snow cones and animals. It doesn't get much better for a 3 year old!

See those stairs? We went DOWN the stairs to see the elephants before the show started. As soon as our feet hit the floor the ring master announced the elephants were leaving and we were to head to our seats. Super. Back UP the stairs we went. Only to find out we had to go DOWN to get to our seats. Let me tell you, Jaxon was not a fan and wanted to be carried. Being the nice ladies we are (and wanting to avoid a melt down) we took turns carrying him, although, my mom carried him more than I did. I decided to get them settled in their seats then I would go back UP to get drinks, and the baby wanted nachos. :) Which meant I had to go DOWN with my loot. Yeah. I needed a nap after all that.

Jaxon "Blue Mouth" Pearson after a snow coneSuch a good little boy

Like every other good Grandmother, my mom had to buy Jaxon a souvenir. Guess what he chose? A sword. If you look closely, he is giving his best intimidating look. Not prompted by anyone. Such a boy.

Days later he is still addicted to the sword. The best thing about the sword is that when he is playing he'll say, "I'm going to whoop you up Mama!" Nice.

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Now onto the 4th. We had a nice quiet day that began with a little visitor in our yard.

Mondays is "belly picture" day. Today, I had a companion. I wonder if in the months to come by belly will reach as far as his head? Once I had my picture taken, he says, "Now you take pictures of me by myself. Spinning." Sheesh!So glad I obeyed, because this is my favorite picture in a long time. How sweet is that smile? And those big brown eyes will just melt your heart (or break it... watch out girls!)And what's The 4th of July in the Pearson house without some fireworks. Since they are illegal in Arizona, unlike in New Mexico, we did not go all out like in the last 2 years. My pryo husband was disappointed.Mike & LoganSkylar
The Bunch Family