One of the best parts of going on vacation is taking lots of photos, so that when you get back home, and the pressures of daily life return all too quickly, you can go through your iPhoto collection and relive calmer, care-free times.

Here’s a scene from Cannon Beach on Christmas day, where a father throws practice pitches to his young son, dogs play worry-free in the surf, and the beach’s signature monoliths loom in the distance.

Here’s Haystack Rock up close and personal. At the bakery in town, we bought a loaf of Haystack Bread and enjoyed it with cheese during a Christmas-Day “picnic” on the patio off our room.

Even bunnies are happy here! Several pairs of “wild” rabbits make their home on the bucolic lawns that front the beach. These aren’t common Peter Rabbits, but gorgeous varieties with Siamese-cat markings, lop ears, and blue eyes!

Sunsets don’t get much better than at Cannon Beach. . .

Now–enough with sightseeing. Let’s get on to the food.

Here is the humongous Fried Oyster Sandwich served at the Warren House Pub, across Highway 101 but with peek-a-boo views of the beach. Such a deal!

And here are the Pub’s substantial rack of ribs, along with a pint o’ beer, it makes a classic example of pub grub.

Although this is a dreadful photo, the fried oysters at The Wayfarer Restaurant & Lounge proved a substantial portion, perfectly fried. The sautéed green beans, carrots, and butternut squash made me feel a bit healthier and less guilty about loading up on fried foods more than normal.