Monterey

This past weekend...we took our first trip to Monterey. We stumbled across a great nature reserve just south of Carmel where the kids had fun tide-pooling and running in the waves. Tide-pooling was very successful...plenty of starfish, hermit crabs and fish to check out. After tide-pooling, we drove through Carmel, which is a quaint seaside town...then took the "17-mile drive" through Pebble Beach.

On Sunday, we spent the morning in Monterey on the Fisherman's Wharf. To our surprise, there were sea lions everywhere! The boys loved it! Of course, plenty of boats for Greg to check out. After the wharf...we drove up to Santa Cruz. On the way, we stopped at an artichoke farm...just to check it out. Our final stop was a beach just north of Santa Cruz. The boys had a great time playing on the beach and dad spotted a sea otter in the kelp beds. Although we thoroughly enjoyed our time on the coast...we were happy to return to the foothills... and 90 degree temperatures!!

The Wells Family

While on vacation in Michigan, we celebrated Greg's Dad 65th birthday and retirement at a small resort on Gun Lake. The location was great... unfortunately, we spent all of our time inside because of the heavy rain from Tropical Storm Ike. Thank God for the indoor pool! It was great to see everyone again! Here are a few pictures from the party as well as our family picture.

The Rosencrans Family

While in Michigan...we were able to spend some quality time with Wendy's family! Here are a few pictures from our time together!

Wells Family Return to Lake Michigan

What would a Michigan vacation be without a few days on the beach of Lake Michigan! Unfortunately, our beach time was limited thanks to mother nature and Ike, but we made the best of it. We were able to spend an evening at Tunnel Beach, afternoon in Ludington, and of course a day in our prior hometown of South Haven. Finn told us on numerous occassions that he wanted to go to the "sand mountain"...aka the huge sand dune near VanBuren State Park.

As you can see...the beach and "sand mountain" was a big hit! Maybe next year...we will take the boys to the real "sand mountain"...Sleeping Bear Dunes!

Visit With The Hometown Gang

We are back in Michigan!! Our first stop, spending a day with friends from Jenison. It was great to see everyone again...especially to see how the kids have grown. Thank you to the Hartgerink's for hosting...we had a great time!