And I'm Home

Friday (the 4th of July) was the last full day of our trip. It started nice and early when my brother's best friend took us out to breakfast.

Then, pigs began to fly and my brother said he would go hiking with us instead of sitting inside all day watching soccer. I think I did a pretty good job at guilting him into it. What are big sisters for?

It was mine and my dad's second hike of the week. My dad is such a beast for being 67! My brother and I sort of left him in the dust and got to the very top for our own personal photo shoot.

My brother was super festive for Independence Day. 

There was a tiny flag waiting for us at the top too. 

The views on the top of these mountains are amazing! We have many mountains up north, but we have to drive awhile to get to the ones with good views. These are right in town and amazing.

My brother made a new friend.

And my dad did finally make it to the top. 

Of course, the sun was out. Which means guns were out too.

At the bottom, I was given a 4th of July present. Shirtless firefighters. I love firefighters and they are especially nice without their shirts on.

Of course, my brother couldn't stay away from soccer too long. We went to lunch at a pizza parlor where we watched the second game of the day.

We were going to my brother's best friend's house for a party that night, so my dad left to make chili. We went on another hike to a place called The Architect's Graveyard. Apparently, CalPoly art students create huge sculptures and just leave them to die. It's very cool.

My brother makes friends everywhere he goes.

And I reenacted the Titanic.

Fireworks are illegal in SLO, so it was a low-key night for me. I was in bed by ten to wake up for an early departure. Saying goodbye to the brother was hard, but I will see him gain in December. That's not too far away right?!? The traffic through the city was terrible and it took us an hour and a half to finally get through. It usually only takes 20 minutes.

My dad made fun of my road trip snacks. Apparently they aren't normal or something.

It was 8pm by the time I got home. The gym was closed, and I was anxious from sitting all day. So, I went for a sunset run.

Then I sat in the grass and looked at the ocean for a long time. The ocean heals me, no matter what kind of mood I'm in.

Today, I spent several hours in my classroom. That's right, it's back to work tomorrow. I'm nervous and excited.

Then I got my long run in and ate too much watermelon when I was finished.

Now it's an early bedtime for me! 

Anyone working tomorrow too??