Paddle boats

While little V held down the fort at home...

...the big girls had a paddle boating adventure in Oakland.

 They also visited a bonzai garden.

 Finally, it was back-to-school night for kindergarten.  All ready for the big day tomorrow!

Bedtime books

First, we went to a really big slide in Pleasanton.

Ah yes, another serene bedtime with baby Violet.

 Speaking of serene, the soft glow of Christmas lights puts the girls in a good mood...

 ...just in time for books with Daddy.  Currently reading "Boy."

A bath for Lou.

 A morning hike...

...means a dirty Doodle.

 Luckily Stephie and Daddy were on the job.

 Soapy Lou.

 Clean Lou!

 Daddy, Stephie, and Violet attended the ribbon cutting ceremony at the new school.

 Ta da!

 This is Stephie's new classroom.  Welcome to second grade!

 Some really cool new playground equipment as well.

All about Violet

Violet has a play house on our new patio...

...but she prefers the umbrella stand instead.

 All of our girls' favorite toy.

 Hi Stephie!

 Ahhh the art cart.  Always getting into trouble.

Photo recap

We missed posting this one from the farmer's market last night.

Check out Stephie's new earrings!

 Helping give Violet a bath.

 This guy showed up at Daddy's work.  Just because.

 Oh my!  Julie fought the weed...

 ...and won!

Farmer's market in Concord

First, a lovely morning hike in Pleasanton.

Then an evening in Concord.  Walking...

 ...a picnic...

 Daddy!!!

 Ice cream...

 ...and dancing to Michael Jackson.

 A baby friend!

 Horsey back rides and footie jammies.  Heavenly.

Fall check-in

First, little miss V learned to climb into her chair...

...to talk on her phone.  : )

 She is getting more into toys and books as well...

 ...and snuggles.

 It was fall check-in day at school.

 It was a 90 minute process, but super organized and successful.