Late Afternoon at Refugio

Brian got home from work today just as Daniel was waking up from his nap. We decided to drive up the coast to Refugio. Daniel and I played on the sand while Brian had a quick surf. Daniel had a blast running into the cold ocean and trying to pull Brian and I along with him. The sun was setting and the water was freezing but Daniel did not want to leave. As Brian carried Daniel (kicking and screaming) off to change out of his wet clothes, he couldn't have been prouder of his little beach bum.

When we got home, Daniel decided to try on Brian's work boots. A little too big?

Wedding Kegs

Today we attended the wedding of our friends Danelle and Danny. They got married at El Capitan beach in a beautiful ceremony that was classic "Danelle and Danny"- no expensive frills, just refreshing simplicity. There were no signature cocktails served- but of course there were beer kegs which Daniel quickly mastered.

Aha! Unsurprisingly, Noah was found teaching Daniel how to top off his cup.

Daniel offering the beautiful bride a cold beverage.

Birthday Dinner

Tonight we went to dinner at Hollister Brewing Company to celebrate my birthday with the family. We love this restaurant for several reasons including the following: 1) close to home 2) great tasting beer brewed onsite 3) it's loud enough that Daniel's talking/screaming/shouting doesn't disturb other people eating, and 4) we always run into people we know. Brian told me he would allow me to dress Daniel in his new pink polo since it was my birthday. I don't know why Brian isn't a fan of the pink- PINK IS PUNK!!!
Daniel decided to work on his photography skills and took some shots. Here is one of my Uncle Randy:

And here is one of my dad. Love the pose Dad!

And one of several that Daniel took of our beverages:

Daniel in a Lum family sandwich.

I'm With the Band

Today for my birthday, Daniel and I enjoyed a mommy/son coffee date and then came back to my parents' to jam. My mom found this drum set at the thrift store for the bargain price of $8.00. Supposedly, we were going to transfer the drum set to our house (my mom didn't want the noise in her house), but a month later and it hasn't moved. I think this may be due to the fact that on more than one occasion my dad has been found playing the drums (and Daniel isn't even in the same room!)
WANTED: Toddler lead vocals, lead guitar, bass guitar and tamborine player to start a garage band with Daniel.

31

To celebrate my 31st birthday, we went to The Palace with Isabelle & Manu and Sarah & Bryan. We had a great time eating and visiting sans the kiddies (who were being babysat by their grandparents.)

Surfing the Pavement

Helmet? Check. Skateboard? Check. This afternoon Brian took Daniel out skateboarding. Daniel's favorite part was when he went fast down the "hills" by himself- he kept laughing and squealing with excitement and joy. 

The Farm

My friend Valerie took some amazing photographs of our kids today when they went to visit the goats and chickens at the neighborhood farm. My favorite shot is the one of Daniel leading Valerie's son Will by the hand to show him the goats- too cute!

Mom's Night Out

I have met the greatest group of ladies through PEP. The only problem is that because we are always chasing after our toddlers it seems we never get to finish the conversations we begin . Tonight we decided to go out to dinner and leave the kiddos at home with the dads. It was a fabulous relaxing evening with yummy food and excellent company. The girls even surprised me with a a birthday dessert. One thing is certain- we could use many more of these mom's night outs!

Up at the Ranch

We went to a great birthday party at Dos Pueblos Ranch. There was tri-tip, horseshoes, and the boys' favorite- jackasses!!

Growing the Garden

Brian and Daniel have been busy planting yummy (tomatoes and strawberries) and beautiful (new flowers) goodies this week. Daniel loves to help out and water everything, and anything.

Doing some watering.

More watering.

The strawberry plants Grandma gave Daniel to plant.

He loves to eat strawberries and is anxiously awaiting for them to turn red so he can devour them!