Over the weekend, Dan and Cindy invited myself mom and dad up to Big Bear. It was absolutely gorgeous, with all the maples and aspen trees that are changing colors. The reds were so incredibly red, and the weather was nice and chilly (at least on the first day). As soon as we arrived, we decided to go for a walk before the storm that came in would rain us indoors.
family portrait
Dan and Cindy :-)
Mom and Dad (looks a bit cold don't you think?)
This was just one of many of the really bright red trees in the neighborhood. I could have taken pictures of every single one, but that would have taken too much time (and I don't think my memory card would have enough space). Between the colors and the brisck cold air, it really finally felt like Fall.
We had to stop at this spot to take a photo shoot. Here I caught my godparents in a candid shot.
But then things get out of hand, and when you follow the ideas of the ADULTS, this is what happens ------------>
Still walking around, we noticed so many little things that we hadn't before. For example, amongst all the For Sale signs posted in people's lawns, this cute little dog sign was placed in a front yard.
bundled up and ready to go run some errands
After running errands, we spent the evening all together indoors, drinking wine, talking about life religion philosophy and everything in between. And dinner was a 3 course meal Nonna style, from Seafood Cocktail to Homemade Lasagna topped off with dessert of Zuppa Inglese.
Sunday was a complete 180 when it came to the weather. It was sunny, and when in the sun, it was warm. Therefore, w (and also to burn off the previous night's dinner) we decided to all go on a hike, and Cindy knew of a new trail that we could try out. The way up turned out to be way more strenuous than anyone imagined. It would be a great trail in the Spring as well, since we crossed many times over areas that seemed to be stream beds. But thanks to Cindy's ingenious idea bringing lollipops and water bottles, we were set.
The view of Big Bear Lake just about where we stopped on the trail (not quite to the top of the mountain)
Dan calls for a pit stop!
while mom and dad forge ahead, all uphill
We are extreme hikers, yes. I don't know who spotted this little sign, but we figured hey why not try this trail to go back down....
Lo and behold it was well worn and the ground was oft. It turned out to be much easier than our trail up the mountain!
the gang way far behind
Mom was leading the pack but had to wait...time for a lollipop
the group - minus mom in front since she was leading us
Finally back down and heading back to the car we encountered this huge Oak. Apparently the woodpeckers seem to love this particular one. As you looked up the trunk it became more and more dense with the perfect circular holes.
