The Beach

My cousins told us about a great little beach just down from Laguna Beach. We had fun at the playground, doing the beach thing then exploring. It was SOOOO hot that day... the next day was record high heat in LA over 110 degrees! It was a gorgeous and relaxing afternoon! Then we went home and crashed early... Dave and Anna were out by 8:30!

And just for fun... again... ROCK ON!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DADDY!

Dave turns 29 today! I love this man so much (and have for almost 11 years!) He is truly amazing. Lately I have been amazed at his ability to balance: work, family, church calling, sports, downtime, bills, yard work, etc. He rarely complains- even when I know he is exhausted-and is willing to help me out whenever I need it. I learn so much from him and don't know what I would do without him. Happy Birthday Babe! You are simply incredible!

Anna woke us up early, which was a good thing because it got me out of bed to make chocolate chip pancakes and OJ. I think a great way to start a day! Anna said we needed a candle for his pan"cake." Tonight Dave and I will enjoy our first dinner date in a LONG time! I am excited!

PRIOR CELEBRATION...

On Sunday we had old (and new i.e. husbands & kids) friends over for dinner and birthday cake. I wanted something extra good and chocolatey... Yep, found it. I give you (with my food network narration) Devils food cake with fudge frosting and mint chocolate ice cream. Topped with icing made out of junior mints, chocolate chips, and an extra hint of mint flavoring. Oh and white chocolate for a little creative touch. Now the cake wasn't beautiful... I had too many ideas and not enough time, but it was DELICIOUS... and still will be for months!

We couldn't get the candles in the top, it was too frozen and the icing was too hard. Thank goodness Dave's birthday is in October. We got away with making it a little "spooky" or crazy however you what to refer to it.

Anna had a great time helping me and so did the rest of her body and her clothes! Who needs a towel. That would be a waste of good chocolate!

Inside... where the goodness lies...

The camera cannot do it justice and neither can a knife!