Splinters = Lots of Pictures with a Side of Kipling

We're due for a family post about now, but I jammed a huge splinter up under my pointer fingernail today, and typing doesn't feel so nice, so I think I'm just going to do a few favorites, mostly from our weekend jaunt to the beach, and be done with this. I will also tell you, O My Best Beloved, that I've been reading The Just So Stories with the big boys and that's made me want to completely change my writing style--but that's another story for another day (just don't forget about the suspenders). In the meantime:

My basil has bloomed--someone tell me fast if this is a good thing or a bad thing.

Texas wildflowers make long runs much more enjoyable.
No, I did not take this picture while running.
I am not that skilled.

Sunrise over the Gulf of Mexico

This was more beautiful than donuts.
The Man picked a good hotel. And also, fine, good donuts.

Beach time fun!

We found so many butterfly shells,
and it brought my mind back to lessons learned in Gift from the Sea.
Great job, Anne Morrow Lindbergh.

Bruiser, in between demolishing Little's sand castles.

Bee, more than likely playing with her watering can,
which she refers to as her "tea party."

I blink, and he grows up.

This kid could live on the beach permanently.

Our lightning fast picture of the sand castle
before Godzilla (aka Bruiser) struck again.

In my attempt to avoid being cheesy, I'll just say:
I'm grateful for this Man.

And that's it for now.

We had a lovely time meeting up with old friends and being on the beach, and the kids are moping about being home with all of its routines (homeschooling! vacuuming! cooking actual meals!), but it was a perfect chance to regroup so that we can now slog on through April and the beginning of May until summer descends with all its 'scrutiating idleness.

Admit it: you knew I wasn't going to let you leave without a little bit more Kipling.