Beach Days Of Christmas

Nick and Cam 

The remaining days of the Christmas season our family journeyed to the beach.

In January, the beaches are not crowded, yet the fun remains.  The boys run along the coast, and sometimes they swim.  Mike and I walk to the local pier, talking about anything and everything.  Our family gets a chance to relax and unwind.

Mike

The fog greeted us the first day, but the following days were sunny and brisk.  The apparel varied from jeans to shorts, pending if the sun decided to hang out.  The guys decided to go whale watching while I enjoyed some quiet time. Then we dared outside dining--complete with heaters.

Nick

We rarely plan the entire trip.  We like having down time, and the boys need practice with spontaneity--a difficult concept for teens with autism.  So as the whim of an idea catches us, we may do it.  Or not.  No matter what, the best time is the time on the beach.

Cam

Smooth Dude

Nick chillin'

Nicholas has had a very busy semester.  He's taking eight classes.  The norm is seven.  His school day starts at 6am with marching band.  He's taking a full load, which is keeping him busy with homework and band practice.  His weekend doesn't really start until Saturday night because marching competitions occur on Saturdays, sometimes running late til 9 or 10pm.

Today, Nick informed me that he needed some down time.  He pointed out how hard he's been working, citing the proof in his grades and marching band awards.  I agreed.

Then Nick gave me that look.  He had something specific on his mind.

"Can I spend my downtime at Starbucks?" he asked somewhat shyly, yet with a smirk.

"Yep!"  I concurred.  I really couldn't argue.

Nicely played, Nick.