A Visit to Avila Valley Barn

Down in San Luis Obispo is the iconic "Avila Valley Barn."  We've heard a lot about it from various people.  There's apparently lots to do, but it was so busy with people because of the Labor Day weekend.   Nonetheless, we had a nice time, and the kids enjoyed looking at all the animals.  Mommy enjoyed shopping in their huge market of local foods and gifts. :)

The Sunset that Wasn't

Interestingly, because of the location of our house and the surrounding hills, we don't get to see actual sunsets anymore.  So on a whim, we decided to head to the nearest beach and catch a lovely sunset.  However, a few minutes into our drive, the ocean fog started rolling in (compared the the sunny skies at our house).  We arrived at the beach to discover a grey sky so thick that we didn't get even a glimpse of a sunset.  

But, its still nice to be at the beach and hearing the rhythmic sound of the waves crashing, and the seagulls making their noises.  The kids enjoyed looking through the tidepools looking for tiny creatures.

Our First "Color Run"

We participated in our first "Color Run."  Christian and Jonathan ran together and did a great job!  Scarlett and I "walked  / ran" because Scarlett wasn't prepared to run with the shoes she had on.   For the last leg of the race, a volunteer took Scarlett and ran with her - it was so cute! :)

Christian Steps Outside His Comfort Zone and Jumps off the Diving Board

Christian is a kiddo who really fights stepping outside his comfort zone.  We've got a new friend who hosts dinner at her home on Friday nights ... and she has a pool.  Christian was really scared to jump off the diving board and so Jonathan bribed him with money to do it.  And it worked!  Christian was SOOOO excited after that first successful jump! :)

First Day of School: 4th Grade

Ladies and gentlemen ... we have a 4th grader! :) He was super nervous, but had a great day!

Note:  Scarlett's pics will be on her own blog.

Christian Gets a Tour of Vineyard Elementary

Today the new Special Education kiddos who are attending Vineyard Elementary school were able to come to the school to meet the principal, their special ed team, and their teachers ... as well as get a tour of the schoool.

This school is so cool, because it is set far off, in the middle of hills and vineyards (hence the school's name).   His teacher, Mrs. Gearhart, seems very nice, as does his Special Ed teacher, Mrs. Van Alstine.  

We are hopeful Christian quickly adjusts to a traditional public school after being in a charter school for the past few years.