Sunday, April 12, 2015

Parlier Picnic

Everyone looks forward to the Parlier Picnic... I remember loving the picnic as a kid and our kids always enjoy it.  I credit the Parlier Picnic with being one of the reasons why Sho was willing to move!

When Kara was little, we would practice her Parlier Picnic run in the backyard... she still smiles when she's running her races.


Ben got strategic with his running and by the last race, instead of running in a totally straight line, he admittedly ran in his friend's "lane" to stay in front.  Who knew he was such a competitor?


Even though the chopstick game was for the adults, Jason was interested in practicing so he can keep the family streak going... (Sho and I both won our respective rounds for the under 55 group!) 


For the first time, Sho and Kara entered the bocce ball tournament.  Kara was the youngest participant and though she was reluctant at first because she didn't know how to play, she was a quick study and they came in second.



Before Ben went to bed last night, he kept saying how he couldn't wait for the picnic and to play BINGO.  Fortunately, he sat by Uncle Gary, who offered to switch cards mid-game, which allowed Ben to win two prizes.


It has become tradition that the prizes for the last race are some type of water squirter and soon after the last race, a water fight begins using the ice cold water that the drinks have been sitting in... 


The other constant is a great time with family and friends.  It's always good to have things you can count on :)


Saturday, April 4, 2015

We love Spring Break!

We could not ask for better weather during spring break... it is that sweet spot that doesn't last long... not too cold and not too hot.

We spent time outside enjoying the simple things... the kids took their sidewalk chalk and created their own masterpieces.  Ben drew all of the dragons from "How to Train Your Dragon".


Jason drew his first family portrait!  Mommy is on the left.... hmm.


Now that we live among acres of grapevines, we got to see the tiny beginnings of the grapes that will soon be flourishing around us.


We were one with nature and found some little friends...


And then there are the oldies-but-goodies that always make for a fun time. 


And after all of the outdoor fun, you top it off with a big, big bubble bath.


Now who doesn't want some of that?!