Wednesday, October 31, 2007

Happy Birthday, Kyla!

Well, it finally happened. Our little, baby girl turned into a teenager this past weekend. Kyla is officially 13-years-old. I'm shocked at how quickly time passes us by.
This year, Kyla chose to have a party at the house with friends. She had set in her mind that she only wanted to invite two guests. I tried for weeks to encourage her to invite more people (for fear the two may not show up), but she stuck to her guns! Her two good friends from school were both able to come and spend time with Kyla. It was simple and quiet, just the way Kyla likes it!
Kyla chose to have a Halloween themed costume/movie party.

Kyla was spoiled this year with some wonderful gifts, gift cards, and cash to spend on what she wanted. Thanks so much to everyone that sent her something and everyone that was thinking about her on her special day; she really appreciated it!

Friday, October 26, 2007

Point Lobos

As I posted these pictures and prepared to tell you all about my visit to Point Lobos with the kids, I was struck with how incredibly blessed I am to have these two people in my life. I am amazed every single day with how wonderful Kyla and Casey are. Just look at those precious faces! The kids are at the age now (9 and very soon to be 13) that we can do just about anything with very little plan time or preparation. I love it! With our possible move next summer, I decided I want to make sure I do and see everything I can in California before we leave. First stop...Point Lobos.
The kids and I spent our last day of fall break at one of the most beautiful places I have been to in a long time. We had a nice picnic and then hiked for a couple of hours along the coast of this beautiful nature preserve.
We spent a little time watching patiently for the fluke or spray of a gray whale, which are migrating along the coast right now. We didn't see a whale, but definitely saw plenty of seals, lizards, and other creatures.

Well, I knew it was time to head home when I viewed this picture Casey took of Kyla and I. Good fun like this can only last for so long!

Thursday, October 11, 2007

Trip to the Pumpkin Patch

We had a fun visit to the organic farm to pick out pumpkins, see the animals, and grab some of the most delicious tasting strawberries I've ever had. Casey was on a mission to find the biggest pumpkin, and Kyla was on a mission to find the most perfectly round one!
We invited a few friends to come along.

Kyla sat near her perfect pumpkin for most of the
afternoon to make sure no one else would take it!

Casey was admiring the piles of pumpkins and gourds.