Vasquez Rocks

 On Sunday, we took a trip to Vasquez Rocks in Agua Dulce, on a day the county park was celebrating an open day with lots of fun family activities.

Violet can still be a bit of a slowpoke, so we used the back carrier on the trek from the parking lot to the nature center.

 The interpretive center opened earlier this year, and it was nice to see, since back in my reporter days I wrote many articles on plans for the building.

 Cora was able to to make a necklace out of part of a yucca plant, an important plant to the native Tatavium people. There were several craft options for the children to choose.

 Both girls painted rocks to resemble bugs and lizards.

 A local astronomy club brought out large telescopes, through which we were able to see the sun.

 Cora also enjoyed an archeological "dig" for various treasures the Nature Center volunteer hid in the dirt.

 Cora had a kitty painted on her face, while Violet chose a ladybug.

 Then, we went off for a little hike and rock-climbing adventure. Cora has been talking about hiking, and with the summer heat behind us (and snakes hopefully hibernating), it was a great day to be out.

 Cora was in her element, climbing everywhere, asking to come back again soon.

 Violet surprised us by climbing everywhere, too. She was very brave.