Hiking at Mission Trails

Though San Diego is 72 degrees most days throughout the year, the mornings have been a bit more crisp over the last few weeks.  It has felt like fall!  So Audrey and I went to Mission Trails to meet some friends for a hike this morning.  We took the Visitor's Center Loop, which is 2 miles.  With 6 kids under 5, it went way better than any of us could have even hoped.  

Audrey was happy to see friends and be out in the fresh air - and look, there are some leaves turning yellow!   There are signs of fall in California!

We went down the big hill and stopped to let the kids check out the water.  We peeked at one of the other trails and decided to check out this cool little bridge.

My friend Rachele snapped a picture of  Audrey and I.

Such a beautiful place to explore.  We were surrounded by mountains, the sounds of the river and the birds, and small signs of fall - can you tell I'm excited about that?  I miss Ohio the most during the fall!

Touching the soft tall grasses.

A new bridge since our last visit.

Checking to see if the seeds will blow away like dandelions.

We stopped for snack time at this great climbing tree.  The 3 boys climbed around like monkeys and Audrey ate all of Moira's chips.

Audrey walked the whole 2 miles!  I carried her up one little hill (maybe 50 ft) and that was it.  She had fun finding acorns, leaves, and rocks.

What a great morning!  I am looking forward to getting out and hiking more often now that the mornings are cooler, and Audrey is willing to do some walking.