The Little Equestrienne

In the weeks before we left Brasilia, I had the chance to take horseback riding lessons.  The riding school works with kiddos to help them feel comfortable with horses, but also to provide a unique form of exercise that focuses on balance and coordination.  Many children and adults with special needs also take lessons for riding therapy.  The "tia's" or riding instructors were super-sweet, and I had a great time riding in the hills above Brasilia!

Gotta have a riding habit

 Getting to know my new, four-legged friend

 

 

Heading into the arena

 Doing some of the riding calisthenics

Heading out to palmy pastures

~ Avery

Pre-Birthday in BSB

Since we'll be in Rio for my REAL birthday, we decided to have a pre-birthday/going away party, so I could celebrate with friends. Our party theme were the blue macaws from...what else?  The movie, Rio!

My friend Sofia and I hung out while the party gear was being set up.

When it was party time, we (especially Isla) all had a blast jumping on the "Poula Poula"

One, two, three lil' princess

Fresh french fries, anyone?

"Birthday" Girl

My cake had sparkler candles.  We weren't sure exactly what they'd do when Daddy lit them up.

Parabens!

That darn trick candle!

Isla knows a good cake when she sees one.

Me and my BFF, Nina.  I sure hope she'll come to visit me in Rio.

Birthday cake with my peeps.

~Avery