Father's day

For Father's Day, our entire family went to the Iron Bird's game. No one watched a single minute, because we were too busy enjoying each other. I love all the memories we are making together as an extended family.


Dad and me.
Dada and Isabel.
Kate, me, Becky, Sacha and Laura. All the girl cousins.

book review

I know, I know. The blog is called "Beach Love" and I'm writing a book review. A girl can wander off topic a bit, can't she?! One thing I absolutely love about the summer, is the endless amount of time I seem to find to read. Don't know where it comes from (or what chores are left undone), but I'm not going to think about it too hard.

Our book club inevitably offers up on non-fiction selection each month. And each month, we seem to choose that one non-fiction book. I love learning about new ideas, or foreign lands, or people's lives. June's book is entitled "The Other Wes Moore: One Name, Two Fates," by, yup, you guessed it, Wes Moore. Briefly, the story is about two men, with the same name, who grew up on the Baltimore streets. One ends up a Rhodes Scholar; the other ends up in jail for murder. The distinguished Wes Moore learns of his counterpart and starts corresponding with the man in jail. After years of communication, both written and face-to-face, the free Wes decides to write a book to perhaps help other young men who find themselves walking those very same streets.

"The Other Wes Moore" is an intriguing (and easy) read. I love reading the two stories side-by-side, watching the boys grow up, and their stories unfold.

It is well....

I have always loved the hymn, "It is Well With My Soul," and the story behind it. Have you ever wondered, whether, in the darkest night of the soul, you'd be able to sing these words?

1. When peace, like a river, attendeth my way,
   When sorrows like sea billows roll;
   Whatever my lot, Thou has taught me to say,
   It is well, it is well, with my soul.
   
   • It is well, with my soul,
     It is well, it is well, with my soul.
2. Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come,
   Let this blest assurance control,
   That Christ has regarded my helpless estate,
   And hath shed His own blood for my soul.
3. My sin, oh, the bliss of this glorious thought!
   My sin, not in part but the whole,
   Is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more,
   Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul!

I have wondered so many times...and God has been faithful to remind me that no matter the trial or hardship, my deepest need has been met. My soul is at true peace, regardless of my raging circumstances. My sin is no longer mine to bear. He has paid the ultimate price, so that when sorrows roll in, I can rest safely in His unfailing love and comfort.

The Beach's Top 10

10. Ocean breezes
9. Lazy afternoon naps
8. Sand castles that are promptly smashed
7. Waves crashing on the sand
6. "Beach" books
5. Freckled noses
4. Eating steamed crabs
3. People watching on the Boardwalk
2. Flip Flops every day, no matter what

AND the #1 top favorite of the beach is.....

1. Ice Cream, funnel cakes, Thrasher's, caramel corn, Candy Kitchen...

What is your favorite "beach" item?

The Beach

Free (new) activities in Ocean City this summer:

1. Family Movie Nights. Monday/Thursdays 8:45pm @ 27th St.
2. Concerts on the Beach. Wednesdays 8:00pm @ Division St.

Not sure if we'll be able to attend these events, but what a great idea. O.C. is upping their family appeal and catering to the current economy. What free summer events are you looking forward to in your area?