Seaside

This year on our annual beach trip, we spent a good deal of time lounging around in the house.  But we did spend two proper days at the beach, where I could read, swim, jump in the waves, and get my inevitable annual sunburn.

My sister in-law, Naomi, is a super-talented professional photographer.  She brought her camera along and did some shots of myself and Doc.  I really encourage you to check out her online portfolio; she takes incredible photos.

Photos by Naomi at NaomiSheress.com

Thanks to Doc and Sadie for holding the lights and being generally awesome and patient.

Bathing suit by Esther Williams (via ModCloth)

Saltwater & Sand

Crumbling Island

At this point, I'm pretty sure that Doc and I vacation differently than other people.  The first thing that caught my eye on the way to our beach house was this abandoned water park/go-kart track, and I knew I had to go back and get some photos.  It would be an awesome place to visit at night for some creepy adventure.  With the ocean on one side and the sound on the other, it looks like an abandoned island of dilapidated amusements.

Seaside Dreams: 'Monsieur Hulot's Holiday'

Some of my favorite films are by the French actor/writer/director Jacques Tati.  His physical comedy and quiet humor make his Monsieur Hulot character a cross between Chaplin's Little Tramp and Mr. Bean.  Hulot is mostly silent, very friendly, and completely ridiculous.

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In 1953's Monsieur Hulot's Holiday, Tati absolutely captures the sense of freedom we all feel during a well-deserved vacation!  During his misadventures at the beach, Monsieur Hulot dresses like a pirate, crashes a funeral service, sets off about three tons of fireworks, and plays the most absurd game of tennis ever.

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Nathalie Pascaud as Martine--isn't she adorable?

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Wishing for Summertime