For the Love of the Ocean

We are blessed to live within minutes of the Pacific Ocean.  My family in the Midwest swears that California will someday fall into the ocean, but until then… I will happily admire, play and jump into it from ashore.

Over the years, our family has enjoyed the beauty of the ocean through a special spot…the Ocean Institute.

This special place inspires all generations, through education, to become responsible stewards of our oceans.  More than 110,000 K-12 students and 6,000 teachers annually participate in the Institute’s 61 award-winning, immersion style programs-truly one of the best experiential ocean educational organizations. We have enjoyed our membership and many weekends down by the sea.

Our two oldest children enjoy week long summer camps at the institute, while our lil ones explore hands on marine life exhibits.

So many programs are offered..they even have special movie presentations.

This weekend, multiple Emmy award winning Betty White will debut her heartwarming documentary about animals in our lives and in our care. A film exploring pets and service animals, in National Parks, zoos and aquariums.  This inspiring film travels the world to provide unforgettable encounters with animals and the organizations that are working tirelessly to protect them. The stories, will at times break your heart but ultimately lift your spirit.  A night not to be missed if you are visiting Dana Point.

My life has been touched by many animals, my most spiritual encounter was with dolphins. I took this journey with my mother and my sister…

I have been a swimmer all my life, so you would think I would be fine in the water with these beauties-but I admit I was a bit nervous.

Once I connected with these precious gifts from above, I completely surrendered to them…

…and had the time of my life.

“Until one has loved an animal, a part of one’s soul remains unawakened.”

Anatole France