Welcome to Fall!

I have made my peace with the loss of Summer - for now. While our daughter and I sat out at Croteau Beach on Saturday collecting what ended up to be hundreds (seriously) of little jellyfish in the overcast morning, I even thought I might love Fall.

The light. The coolness in the air…and oh the colours.

Magic.

Speaking of magic, we’ll be registering for our first group trip to the pumpkin patch later this week. So, check back in to make sure you get hooked up with some harvest good times in a group setting.

Here’s some of what’s happening around the region:

- Well, it’s been a long laundry list of delays for the Sports Centre pool reopening. But, everyone promises me that it will reopen TODAY. So, plan on getting back into that swimming groove over at the Sports Centre or check out the schedule at the Aquatic Centre for a backup plan.

- All First Nations families in the Comox Valley are invited to take part in an incredible cultural program for children ages birth to 6. Renowned Cree artist George Littlechild will introduce children and families to Cree culture through stories and art for 4 Fridays beginning Oct. 3 at the CV Family Services at 14th and Cliffe Avenue in Courtenay. The program runs from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. and there are only 10 spots available. Register by calling Frank at 250-339-3215.

- Youth ages 8 to 12 are invited to take part in the Better Choices, Better Future video contest through the Comox Valley Regional District. This cool compeitition is all about coming up with creative ways to inspire young people to become environmental stewards. The deadline for video submissions is Oct. 17, with the winners announced Oct. 27.

- The Wachiay Friendship Centre on Mansfield Drive is now hosting a great art show, featuring eight local aboriginal artist. This show is a short run, up until Sept. 28. So, drop on by and check out the amazingly talented people who live in the Valley.

- Get your tickets now for the Rainbow Youth Theatre presentation of Oliver. The show runs from Oct. 16 to 25 at the Sid Williams Theatre in downtown Courtenay. Tickets are $20 general admission, with seniors, students and children $16.

- KidSport has started a new community chapter in the Comox Valley. This amazing program that raises money so that kids who can’t afford to play sports can still participate is just in the organizing phases here, but has been in place in BC for several decades. If you are looking for a great organization to get involved with, check in with the Sports BC people and they’ll put you in touch with the local organizers, as volunteers are needed.

- The Campbell River Art Gallery has an wide range of art classes - both drop-in and weekly - for kids of all ages this Fall. Check out holiday craft classes, painting, drawing and mask making on the website. Good stuff.

- Tickets are now on sale at the Sid Williams Theatre box office for the Sept. 26 performance of Sharon and Bram. This family sing-along concert should be fantastic fun for everyone. The cost is $30 for adults, $10 for kids under 14. Book online or by phone at (250) 338-2420.

- A class, Changing Babies - Modern Diapering Options, will be from 7 to 8 p.m. TONIGHT at Comox Valley Midwifery, 343 Third Street in Courtenay. This chance gives you a chance to look at a number of cloth and disposable diapering options including cost, cleaning and ease of use. The cost is $10 with proceeds going to support You Are Not Alone (YANA). Reservations are needed. So, call (250) 338-2283 for more information.

- Registration is now going on for the next Rainbows Program for children who are grieving from a significant loss or change in their family such as death or divorce. The next 12-week series of FREE classes will begin Sept. 23. This solid program acts as a support group for parents and children alike. Call (250) 339-3966 for all of the details.

- Registration for Fall programs through the Laurie Tinkler School of Dance is ongoing. Classes are generally for dancers ages 3 and up. But, there’s a new mom and tot programs for 2 year olds! Call (250) 897-8885 for more details.