A Norman Rockwell evening ... children’s laughter, the delicious aroma of homemade goodies, grown-ups smiling, waving to old friends ... as the afternoon sunlight faded into a rustic sunset, I took a moment to look around me, the spirit of a small community was everywhere! An 1800s buggy with pumpkins and cornstalks keeping it company beckoned Valley Home School Harvest Festival goers back to days long gone by. Hay bales became favorite sitting spots and delicious tri-tip sandwiches and cool drinks kept the crowd nourished during the evening. A delightful silent auction had bidders anxious to win the bid on their favorite items. Balloons, carnival games, face painting, pie eating, milk challenge, costume and community scarecrow contest kept everyone entertained throughout the evening.

Our fire department, always a crowd favorite came in their big, shiny red fire truck and to the festival goers delight, our Stanislaus County Sheriff officers were present and allowed everyone to visit and pet K-9 officer “Ringo.” Many had pictures taken with this highly respected and well trained K-9 officer! Music floated through the night air as Richard Olds provided a truly remarkable sound all evening. We were treated to a very special performance as Miss Hayven Smith wowed the crowd with her beautiful voice! Special thanks to Hayven for making our evening perfect! Cotton candy, popcorn and sno-cones were also a big hit with all.

The magnificent midnight blue Lopes Pull Truck came to life, the roar drowned out all other sound! And ending the evening was a wonderful hay ride where riders who were brave enough to take part, entered a creepy, spooky and frightening cemetery with haunted zombies roaming the grounds!

Special thanks must also go to the high school students for all their help in putting on a spectacular event.

Valley Home School Superintendent, Mr. Tom Price offered a most heartfelt thank you to all who helped make this special evening possible!

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There will be a MAC meeting this Wednesday night, Oct. 21 at 6 p.m. at the school library.

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As always you may reach me at (209) 985-5233 or email @winniemullins51@gmail.com. Until next time “Happy Trails to All!”