Beach goers

In keeping with what some of our goals for the year are:

I have declared this "the summer of the Beach" in the Legg household.  All of the little people are big enough to enjoy the ocean to some extent or another and since we only live 20 minutes away from a breathtaking coast, this year we are going to make the most of it.

This goal, however, is no small task with little children.  I feel like every time we prepare to head down to the beach we look like we are moving house; shade tent, blanket, towels, beach toys, goggles, snorkels, sunscreen, hats, changes of clothes, snacks, water bottles, it's amazing how little children add so much 'stuff' you have to bring anytime you go anywhere.  We are going to attempt to not let that stop us. . . .we are going to forge ahead, cram it all in the van and venture forth.  I always find once we are there it's totally worth it.

We planned one such outing yesterday and woke not to the typical 30+ sunny weather we have been having here in good ol Perth, but to a cloudy cool day.  Go figure!  We were not deterred, we had made a commitment and the kiddos were excited so off we went.

It was windy and too cool for me to get in the water, I admit it, I'm a wuss, but so is Nate so that was my excuse ;).  Tilz and Daddy had a great time trying out her new snorkel and me and the other two had fun visiting with dear friends and playing in the sand.  

It was such a great way to spend a cloudy morning.  

Nate loves throwing sand, so had to distance himself from the group.

I think someone was wanting a nap.  

We even went out again that evening to watch the sun set over the water (forgot my camera for that one--out of practice), something we haven't done in quite a while.  It was a great start to our beach going summer, we'll see if we can keep it up!!

Are you a beach goer?  What are you favourite things to do at the beach, or tips on getting there more easily with kids?