Brighid's Birthday

Found some hidden photos!

In August we made a quick overnight trip to Reno for my friend Brighid's 30th surprise birthday party.

Her husband Justin planned everything out and had us all met at Lake Tahoe for an afternoon BBQ. It was such a fun, relaxing day.

The American Fire was just starting to get controlled, but the smoke would still roll over the mountain range every night. Watching it come in was really erie... like the start of a Stephen King novel.

We stayed the night in Sparks with Brighid and Justin and thoroughly enjoyed our visit with them (and the view from their house- smoke and all!)

Happy Birthday, Brighid! We were so happy to be able to share the day with you!

Grandpa Walsh's Birthday

After looking back through my camera I realized I don't have much documentation of August and September...why? Because school started again and our lives become packed! Life seems to speed up and time just slips away.
At the end of September we were able to spend the weekend in Santa Cruz for Ed's birthday.

We utilized the kids nap time to go to our favorite winery for a short visit...

 The weather was perfect for an outside tasting.

 And then we took Ed and Linda out for appetizers. Spencer had the most fun :)

 ...although, Adaline had fun, too!

 Then we had a short story time with Grandpa while Grandma cooked a delicious dinner.

Followed by birthday cake, of course!

And then some clog dancing

It was a beautiful weekend that passed by too quickly. Can't wait until we can return! Happy Birthday, Grandpa!

Knight's Ferry Covered Bridge

After our hike we strolled over to the Knight's Ferry Covered Bridge. Even though I grew up in the area, it was my first time going to it. It was beautiful!

To get to the bridge you walk up a short path that winds through the old building structures, which are beautiful in their own way.

Spencer was fascinated by the spaces between the boards.

really really fascinated.

We all had a great time and we're already looking for more local, short hikes...recommendations are welcome!

First Family Hike

We've been able to be fairly active as a family of four...we go for walks, runs, and bike rides as often as we can, and we just recently went for our first hike. Adaline did the short hike with us while Spencer rode in the backpack. It was so neat to to have one child be able to carry her own weight!

There were so many berries and grapes surrounding the trail...

...and buzzards.

a little eerie.

 Adaline made a set of binoculars in school the week before our hike- perfect timing!

It was a beautiful

We even saw a few groups of rafters floating by.

It was a great intro hike for Adaline...walk a bit, sit and watch the river for a bit, then walk back. Hopefully she grows to love hiking as much as Travis and I do!