2006

An awesome sunset sets the stage for the bonfire we’ve been putting off forever. Gabe and I enjoy the surf while everyone else chills around the fire. While the kids thoroughly enjoy themselves.

Mom went to visit with Scott and his family in Chicago for Annabel’s birthday. Looks like it was plenty of fun. Man, they live too far away.

Gabe and I are working on his science homework. It always helps to look as much like a scientist as possible when doing science.

Another day in Yosemite means more great hiking. Today we head out from the Ahwanee Hotel towards Mirror Lake. Finally Gabe has his chance to climb all over lots of great boulders. Monica also found a great pinecone to take home with us. Some very cool fungi on a fallen tree. We catch a few glimpses of Half Dome along our hike. Mirror Lake is pretty much gone this time of year. It does make for some spectacular views. I sure wish I had a backpack and could just keep on going. ...

It’s always so hard to get reservations in Yosemite Valley, so Charlotte reserved a room at the Yosemite Lodge a year ago and the time to take advantage has arrived. It’s a great weekend and everyone is jazzed about the trip, even if there’s a pile of homework that needs to get done. Today we’re heading out on the trail up to Vernal Falls. Maybe we can make it to Nevada Falls also, but that’s likely too big a trip for our crew. Everyone is looking really happy so far. ...

A great day at the end of a long weekend means we have to head for our favorite beach. I couldn’t believe how empty it was, or how fantastic the day was. Charlotte and Nick explored some tidepools while Gabe and I did some rock climbing. Monica is off in the distance reading and sunning. Gabe and I went out to Franklin Point and had a blast climbing all over the rocks. ...

This magnificent sunflower inspired me to take a few shots before things fade away.

Nemo and her crew headed out to Santa Cruz Reef today to see what the rockfish catch was like. We were rewarded with this nice red, a wide variety of small rockfish, mackeral, jacksmelt, and more. The weather got a bit rough towards the end, but these salty sailors were up to the challenge. Looking forward to our next trip.

It’s getting dark soon, but there’s plenty of time to squeeze in a quick fishing trip over at the wharf. Gabe caught a few mackerel, jack smelt, and perch.

Nick’s working his first real summer job this year. Our friends Matt and Paula own a few restaurants on the Santa Cruz Boardwalk and they were nice enough to offer Nick the chance to work there. I never imagined getting such a cool job when I was a kid. Who wouldn’t buy a hot dog on a stick from this guy! Gabe and Monica enjoy a few rides after dropping Nick off for work. I never knew the turnstile was a ride. ...