October has been a very happy, busy month in our home. School is in full swing and both kids are doing well, soccer is in full swing and both kids are having a great season, the weather has turned gorgeous and we are enjoying it, and we have squeezed in some fun family time.
As Mike often sings, "Sisters, sisters, never were there such devoted sisters!" Cora continues to love books. She spends a lot of time pulling books off the shelves so she can turn pages looking for animals. She especially loves finding dogs, cats, and bears.
We were so happy to have Uncle Joel come the first weekend in October to ride Levi's Granfondo, starting in Santa Rosa. The boys opted for the 100 mile ride, which features a single start time (Mike said it took a good 20 minutes for them to roll over the starting line after the gun sounded, there were so many riders), and a beautiful ride along the coast. It sounded like a challenging but very enjoyable day. I think there are already plans for a repeat next year. Since they were gone, Sylvie made herself comfortable in Mike's spot on our bed. Make that, she slept smack in the middle.
Lots and lots of bikers and a view of the coast!
We enjoyed a cook out with friends Sunday night at the park. Cora is in love with apples these days and feels very big when she gets one all to herself to gnaw on.
The trampoline continues to be a very favorite activity. For some reason when it is not under the trees, the kids use it 100x more.
We kicked off booing this year, (not by ourselves, but we went early before being booed). The kids were so excited. Jens got dressed in stealth mode and did a great job sneaking up, dropping, ringing, and running. We had a great time doing this.
Ready to run!
We had just gotten home from booing and the kids were getting ready for bed when OUR doorbell rang. Sylvie screamed "Jens! Jens! We're being booed! My wishes and dreams have come true!" While running to the door. I hope whoever booed us heard her enthusiastic response. The kids were both VERY excited. Although we displayed our "we've been booed" sign prominently, we were booed three times all together this year, much to the glee of our kids. They loved it every time and were very excited about it all. I honestly think they might love Halloween more than any other holiday.
Enjoying the spoils.
This one continues to just be a real treat.
I loved this drawing by Sylvie, but before I could ask her the story behind it, she erased it and drew something else.
Did I mention how popular the trampoline is?
Sylvie, all gussied up for a friend's party. She orchestrated her own princess-ish outfit and wrote the card all by herself.
Did I mention the trampoline? This morning, Cora went out in the cold and just sat on the trampoline for a good 20 minutes until I made her come in because I was afraid she would turn into a popsicle.
One more boo, for good measure. Sylvie was our bell ringer this time.
In a long over due family day, we trekked to the coast and went to Stinson Beach. I can't believe we have lived here 9 years and this was our first trip. It was such a gorgeous, fun day. I am sure we will go back sooner rather than later. The kids loved playing in the sand and getting their feet wet. Cora started out afraid of the water, which was great. Then she realized it was pretty fun and started running into the ocean whenever she could get away, which was terrible. Then she got sidetracked by the sand, spending at least an hour and a half scooping it in and out of a bucket, which was wonderful again. We ate snacks, relaxed, and enjoyed being outside together. It was a perfect family day.
Beach girl!
This is the swimming suit Sylvie wore at Tahoe a few months ago when she forgot to bring hers :)
The ocean is no longer scary--to Cora! I was afraid she was going to be swept away.
Love that face!
Writing her name with her feet.
Such a happy day!
Jens's class went on a field trip to Coloma. They had a pretty great time--panning for gold, hiking, learning all sorts of interesting things about California history. Jens found some gold, but sadly his pouch got lost. He was really bummed, but had a pretty great time.
Cora is such a fun little gal. While she was building with blocks this day I couldn't help but reflect on how happy my life is. I feel so thankful for my sweet family, our comfortable home, Mike's good job. We are so blessed, and I am truly grateful.
