January

I'm so grateful to be on this journey.  We've seen so many incredible things and met so many wonderful people.  It seems like our lives are busy right now, and full of good things.  January started out with our traditional sunrise.  The beach was cool and overcast this year.  Another dark grey to light grey welcoming, but perfect temperature for an early walk.

As the kids get older some of the enthusiasm for waking up before the sun is waning. ;)  It didn't help that we were up until 1am and back up again at 6.  Everyone survived- imagine that!

Bug requested we try to make these at home this year as part of our Japanese feast.  Takoyaki!  Little pancake like balls with octopus (tako), onions, fish flakes, etc.  The kids ate their weight.

We jumped into the first week of the new year with a 'swamp tromp'.  A truly amazing experience.  Our guides took us out through some natural 'islands' and told us about the area, the flora, the fauna.  We even got to taste a few wild edibles.  Any day spent outside is a good day!  A day spent outside in a beautiful area, with fantastic friends is a gem.

People watching- just hanging out observing the canoes go by. 

We talked him out from behind his desk. ;)

He was in a canoe with friends and this is the ONLY time I was in front of him the whole trip, hence the only picture.

The State Fair.  Kids entered several projects-- art, food, lego sculpture, music, etc-- via 4H this year and won multiple ribbons, including grand prizes (Bug for food and Lise for art)!  They were very excited. . . especially since the ribbons came with prize money. 

Bug's Lego Manatee

Lise's watercolor (Nausica- the boot is damaged from tape)

Army helicopter on display at Fair

4H walk.  Golden Orb Weaver- she's about 6 inches! 

A taste of January

I've continued with my art classes online.  Lots to learn.  I love this technique for eyes!  This birdie looked better as just eyes and no feathers ;)  Feathers are hard in watercolor.