My family's visit to Carmel this past week was very entertaining.  Living away from family always makes you appreciate the time you do get to spend with them.  Besides all the social time, we were able to give my nephew Ben his first haircut, which was a big deal for my sister.  It's not like she was going to take Ben somewhere else to receive his first haircut when she has two stylist in the family.  While I felt privileged to have the opportunity to cut his hair, I gladly handed the shears to my mother as I did feel a little rusty - having been away from the trade for a few months.  Plus, it gave me the opportunity to take a lot of photos of Ben's first experience with someone other than his mom messing around with his head.

Saturday was spent walking around town and visiting Fisherman Wharf.  The Wharf, which includes restaurants, gift and candy shops, a theater, an aquarium, snack bars, and fish markets, is always a must-see when you visit Monterey. 

Sunday was beach day, and we spent the afternoon basking in the sun and watching Ben kick his little legs in the surf.  My sister did mention that Ben loves the water, but the degree to which he wanted to constantly be swallowed up by the waves was quite comical.

It was incredibly gratifying to see Ben's fascination with Luna, and even more importantly, her patience with him.  ​Every opportunity Ben got, he would wander over to our couch-bound dog and squeal, slap, pinch and hug Luna’s face; and like the good Golden she is, Luna would just lie there and accept Ben's affection.  Luna always managed to reciprocate with a big lick on his face - which in return, made Ben squeal even louder.

I am sorry to see my family and Ben leave, but I am very thankful that everyone was able to come and visit.  Next week we will be expecting D’s parents to pay us a visit, and hopefully I will get to do this all over again!