A very long pause between day one and day two as I was away for a month, but on day two we were joined by Mike (shown walking along El Piscador Beach). There were lots of rocks as you can see in the other pictures. Another beautiful day of perfect beach weather and a perfect day spent with my wonderful grownup children.

We think the name "El Matador" may come from this rock that looks like a bull--what do you think? The middle photo is of Joy and Jeff at Point Dume where we watched six surfers out by the rocks--which made us think perhaps it should be renamed "Point Doom." The seastars, which I mistakenly called starfish were amazingly plump and prevalent as were the mussels.

There will be a delay in viewing the day two photos as I will be away, but please check back later to see the other two beaches we visited.

Our first day at El Matador beach--an amazing mixture of sand, water, caves and sealife. Thanks to Linda we have the proof that El Matador exists and it is a beautiful place. More photos to come.

A birthday beach photo from 1952. Just wanted you to see the "ridiculous" so you can enjoy the "sublime" beach photos from 2007. On Thursday, Jeff, Linda, Joy and I drove to see the much talked about El Matador Beach (remember my first picture on this blog). Then on Friday Mike drove down to join us--what a wonderful day for me. Hopefully I can post the "proof" of this beautiful beach soon. Thanks to all who made my day!

Many years ago while attending a class on "relaxation techniques" we were asked to close our eyes and picture ourselves in a place (real or imaginary) where we felt perfectly safe and happy and peaceful. Then when we experienced major stress (concerns, hurts, sadness, etc.) we could relax, close our eyes and go to this "perfect place." No surprise that my place was "the beach." You may not recognize it, but over the years whenever anyone in the family has been concerned or sad or hurt, I have gathered you up and taken you all here. We have had some great times being together, holding hands in the water, exploring the old ship on the beach, whatever made you happy.

p.s. This is a real place. The magazine caption read "A Greek Isle." (Amy can relate)

Another fun boating experience -- the paddleboats at the Young Family Herb Farm.

Happy birthday to you. Happy birthday to you. Happy birthday dear Jeffrey. Happy birthday to you--and many more! I tried to time this post at the exact time you were born, but I'm a bit early instead because my blog expert, Allyson, isn't here to coach me. I love you.