Tommy kept a watchful eye on Julia,

Julia (Christine’s daughter) and Caroline (Tom’s daughter) negotiate over a bag of chips.

Competition extended to the back lawn, where a very vigorous game of “500” failed to yield a definitive champion.

Nico and cousins deeply engrossed in a battle of wits.

Uncle Bob and Frank comparing arm crossing techniques.

Christine has a good grip on Drew preventing his investigation of all things dangerous.

Cousin Edward was the only adult willing to brave the chilly water. He is competing regularly in triathlons and has the physique to prove it.

Anita the quintessential hostess, leads the second wave of beach combers to the water.

Let’s not forget Rachel.

The Quinn family was in fine form as we ventured down to the beach (2 blocks away).

Frank and Angela made it in for the day and returned to Concord with us.

Several peacocks are among the menagerie of pets/potential dinner ingredients kept on the premise.

The resulting work of art.

Tony demonstrated how to carve a watermelon and I fear that I will not get to eat the next few watermelons that make it into our house.