Halloween

Anna: Scientist, Me: Queen, Yumi: Ghost. Sam (not shown): Pumpkin (t-shirt)

Nickerson Family: Ladybug, Trucker, Mobster, Kimono Girl and Doctor

Pumpkin Patch

We went to Tanaka Farms, a day after heavy rains. It was so muddy that we had to wait about an hour until the ground dried and even then we were slip-sliding. I was holding Mama's hand, but it was more for my benefit (of not slipping and falling in the dirt) than hers! We went home with pumpkins, shoes caked with mud, and memories of an adventurous day.

Disneyland

Yumi and I took Anna and Sam for an afterschool trip to Disneyland. Pumpkins garlore, even a giant Mickey jack-o-lantern! Yumi and Anna rode on a couple of rides while Sam and I listened to music in Frontierland. Sam also had his first taste of cotton candy, and got some attention from the confectionery lady. It's nice breaking up the week of school with a fun outing like this!

Teddy Bear Picnic

Sam's kindergarten class had a "Teddy Bear Picnic", each student brought a favorite stuffed animal to share treats with. Can you spot Sam in each of these photos?

Flashback to Summer: San Diego with Friends!

My friend Meghan lives in an amazing San Diego high-rise right across from the convention center. There are views of the city and ocean. She had a pool party and invited some coworkers over for a swim. We were living it up for a day... the kids thought we were in Las Vegas.

I am once again working full-time after several years of job-sharing. I am at a new school teaching primary grade kids. I'll miss my coworkers, but am embracing the new challenge. Hopefully I can keep up with the blogging, I still tote my camera around whenever possible!

Introducing Connor

My friend Aileen's son Connor was born in July, we visited them in Porter Ranch during the summer. Connor is adorable, parents seem well-rested and they have some cute pets too! Three cats and a bird, the kids were entertained while Steve and I enjoyed the good eats at their baby shower. Congratulations Aileen and Koji!

Lifting off in Long Beach

Look what came in the mail!

The world is our oyster now... :)

Muse with Mari!