It has Begun

Summer went out with our family vacation to the beach last week. We go with my whole family, and it seems like the older the kids are getting, the easier these trips are becoming. Don't get me wrong, none of the parents sleep very well because we are sharing rooms with toddlers and children who talk in their sleep. But the older kids allow for more adventurous activities. And the weather this year was the best it's ever been. Beach weather is always great, but it's usually pretty grey and overcast when we go. This year, sunshine and cool breezes. I only have one picture from the actual beach because I never remembered to bring the camera down, but the kids loved it. Andi is getting really good at boogie boarding, and the boys just like all the playing in the sand. Peter thought it was great fun to chase and run away from the waves. This is from the first night there and he was still happy after face planting in a wave.

We went to the Avila valley barn this year and it was fun. There were all kinds of animals for the kids to feed, and a wonderful fruit/vegi market, and a hay ride through the farm.

After the barn we went in to Pismo for lunch and Old West cinnamon rolls. This was the cool table.

Right across the street from the house we were in was this open area with lot's of trees that the kids loved playing in. They even got Thad to help them build a fort in one.

There were also smores. Since we didn't have a fire pit, and no one wants marshmallows that taste like propane, we improvised.

All in all it was a great week and we are missing the cool weather already. School started for us while we were still at the beach, but monday the kids went to their first day.
Andi was very excited to get back and see her friends. It's been a long summer with just me and Sammy for company. 4th grade already this year!

Sammy is in afternoon kinder and it was a long morning of waiting for him. But as we got to the school he found his best buddy and the wait was worth it. He is the biggest kindergartener in the world.

Monday was a bit rocky, but here's to hoping for a better second day and a great year.