Day Trip to Santa Cruz

One of the best things about our move back to CA is that we are 3-4 hours away from places and people we love.  Hence, why we were able to take a 36-hour trip to Santa Cruz this past weekend to visit Peter's brother, with a jaunt up to SF to see Ben Ottewell.  It was a great time!  Thanks to Eric and Anne for the hospitality (and for keeping the kids entertained while we jotted off to SF).  Can't wait for another visit!

First up: private "Garden Party" with Ben Ottewell of Gomez.  Lots of fun!

Hamoa Beach

 Little Pieces

Disc golf with the fam

Exploring Santa Cruz beauty

Perfectly captures their qualities: Peter--laid back; Jeremiah--wacky; Alayna--pensive

Where we met and fell in love.  ❤Santa Cruz❤

Chillin' with Tashi

Reading Award!

Alayna was recognized for her achievements in reading this week in a school assembly.  She was also given a citizenship award from her classmates.  We're so proud.  The video is less than 20 seconds (and you'll need to turn up your volume).  Bummed I didn't record the first little bit where her teacher says what a joy she is to have in the class and that she reads at a 4th grade level.  But, we know all that already.  :)

Good going, A-girl!

This Was Not Mom's Idea

And she won't have much to do with it.

But, we have a new family member.

His name is Snape.

And he's a cornsnake.  Here he is:

First feeding (GROSS!!!!)

She adores him.  This whole thing was her idea.  Seriously.

Welcome to the family.....I guess.

Two-Week Round Up

Peter has finally rejoined the family!  He's been here for about two weeks and we've been nonstop busy since he got home.  He still hasn't started work yet, so we're just getting stuff done around the house and hanging out together before he goes back to work (which should be in another week or so).

Here are just "a few" photos from our recent times together.

The kids were so excited to have Dad back!  

AG Harvest Festival!

With their friend, Jared

Spelling Bee...FIRST PLACE!

Beach fun.

He ate a dried cricket!!!  ICKY!

Apple Picking

Lunch date at Old Juan's!