Beach Get-away

Nathan and I were able to visit the beach this week for a late anniversary get-away, and it was fabulous.  We were able to relax and just enjoy being together again after a long separation.  We slept in, combed the beach for interesting things, and reveled in the beauty of God's creation.

You can drive on the beach in some places.

My brother and his family had just moved to the coast and we were discussing if we should visit them when, lo and behold!; there was my brother and his young son!  Just walked right in front of our car in the Safeway parking lot.  So of course we jumped out and greeted them and laughed at the chance meeting.  The next day Nathan and I spent an enjoyable afternoon with them.  I thought I might feel jealous of my time, wanting to spend all of it with just my husband.  But when it came right down to it, I am so glad that we saw my brother and had lunch with his family.  We truly love them.

A beached whale.

After visiting with them, Nathan and I enjoyed time at the beach, admiring the fog and the waves. I love the beach!  The best moments of my life involve Nathan and the ocean.  To be in a place where I feel the presence of God to strongly and to have my best friend by my side... 'tis a wonderful thing.

I'll tell you a secret.  One of our favorite parts of going to the coast is the fact that we pass through Portland.  Why is this such a good thing?  Because of Chang's Mongolian Grill of course!  Best food ever!

I married a photographer by the way.

 

I was very car-sick on this trip.

 

Oh and P.S.

Do not scroll down further if you can't handle blood and guts.  Seriously.

Nathan and I were thrilled to witness a Peregrine Falcon eating it's prey.  We are huge raptor enthusiasts, Nathan's parents being wildlife biologists and all.  We found the scene of the crime (the original kill spot, where the Peregrine probably dive bombed the unwitting duck at 100-200mph) and has we walked further we saw the Peregrine itself, enjoying his repast. We also saw the Peregrine swooping after some crows, who were getting a little too brave and wanted some of that fancy meal.  They didn't get any.

They hapless duck.  Not even a chance did he have.