Happy Halloween

Happy Halloween from The Boo Crew

I have a few basic rules about costumes. This young son refused to participate unless he could be something I had said no to. I called his bluff. This is his "I am trying hard to look angry" pose.

She was just so amazed that they were giving her candy at every door!!!!

A Visit To A Retirement Community

Daddy decided it would be fun to go sing songs and spend time at the retirement home down the way. So we scheduled a day to go. It was very special to spend time with the ladies and gentlemen who live there.

While Daddy sang and played guitar the kids and I took turns talking with the residents and listening to their stories. The kids love all the attention and I think the residents did too.

After awhile the girls could not resist the music any longer and took to the floor for an impromptu dance recital. It was great!

All except this one who is a little shy. We talked quietly in the corner instead.

Taylor Creek Salmon Run

My Grandparents were close by in Lake Tahoe this Fall. Visiting them there is always a special treat for us. We get them all to ourselves and get to enjoy all of our favorite place, TAHOE! They were camping in a different spot than usual and there were trees that were climbable everywhere. The kids had a ball giving me a heart attack.



One of the things on our bucket list has been to make the trek to Taylor Creek to watch the Kokanee Salmon run. Somehow we manage to miss it every year. My Grandparents visit was timed perfectly for us to go all together. Taylor Creek Visitor Center has a short hike called, The Rainbow Trail. The hike is beautiful, easy and has a steam profile chamber, where you can observe see the creek from underwater and watch the fish in action through a panel of windows.



The hike is shady and stunning. There are markers explaining the different plants and animals you might see on your way.



There are a ton of areas to get right up to the waters edge and you could reach out and touch the thousands of fish filling the creek.





There were also plenty of bugs! This little guy was a huge hit.





They were just fascinated with how he moved and how soft he was. We spent a good twenty minutes examining him. It always amazes me, the wonder of children!



My Grandparents took the kids into the viewing chamber but I had my dog in tow so I had to stay on the trail. I went around and found a beautiful spot where a butch of fish had accumulated. When they can out the other side I brought them to my secret location.

As we sat there ooohhhh and ahhhhhing the fish, I heard a very low guttural growl. I looked at my dog and back up to the creek and saw the BIGGEST bear I had ever seen in Tahoe! This picture does no justice to how close and giant this guy was. Jacob snapped this photo as I quietly gathered the kids to leave. The creek was maybe a foot deep here and it would have taken seconds for him to cross. I was so proud none of the kids screamed!