uno and smores

This weekend was absolutely beautiful! The weather was so warm and the sky was so clear. You could actually see San Clemente Island which is just a little bit off the coast. The sun was glistening on the water and the ocean breeze was just perfect. It is on such warm and relaxing weekends I am reminded of my childhood. I have fond memories of playing games with my sisters during the summer time. Often our family would have another family over for dinner and games. As an adult I still love to continue this in my own home. This weekend we had some of our favorite friends over...the Giaretta family.
Brian and Amy are from Chicago and moved here 3 years ago. They are a part of our small group at church and we have been friends with them since we moved here to San Clemente. Brian serves in the Marines and they live on the base here in San Clemente on Camp Pendleton. Our town is filled with military personnel which really gives us a sense of patriotism and respect for the men and women serving our country. Whenever I see a man with the "high and tight" hair cut I am always reminded of the sacrifice our military make to protect our country's freedom.

One of my favorite things about the Giaretta's is their recent addition to the family...Olivia Joy. She was born in September and she really is a dream baby. She rarely cries and she is always so happy and easy going. Both Travis and I can't resist grabbing her away from her parents whenever she is in sight.

So, after church they came over for lunch and we barbecued hot dogs and hamburgers. We played yahtzee and uno. It is amazing how long a game of uno can go and of course, the girls were better at both games (although the boys would say this is disputable).

Below Trav and Brian are trying to look tough, although they were losing to us girls (again this is disputable).

Gunner was obsessed with baby Olivia. He just wanted to be close to her. It was so cute because she would laugh out loud when he would lick her hands, her toes, and occasionally her face. He would get close to her and she would immediately close her eyes preparing for the incoming kiss...and then she would start laughing. Amy and I were both glad Olivia wasn't afraid of Gunner and he was gentle with her.

After our rousing game of uno, we decided to head to the beach for pizza, a bonfire, and some smores. There is a cute pizza place across from the pier. So while the guys built the fire, Amy and I grabbed some pizza. After dinner we finished off the night with delicious fire roasted smores. It was altogether a wonderful day and we are so thankful to have such great friends!