Such Things

Loving Winter

My husband, Mark, and I were having one of those "dreaming about the future" conversations that we often have, and he asked me, "What would you think about living in Hawaii? 

Would you want to live in Hawaii?"  To be honest, I surprised myself my saying,

"No. I would love to go on a trip to Hawaii, but I think would actually miss the changing of the seasons if I lived there."

I would miss the outdoor winter adventures, like skiing,

tubing,

skating,

 and winter camping.

Admiring the winter star-lit skies,

and waking to see a stunning sunrise.

At least for now, I think I'd like to keep living right here where we are!

:: all of the above photos were taken on a weekend adventure to Manning Park.  Mark took the nighttime photo with a tripod and a 30 sec. exposure time.

Hope you are enjoying the season you are in where you live!

A Little Valentining

I must confess, I have a bit of a soft spot for Valentines day.  I love the love, the hearts and the red, pink and white.

My students enjoyed decorating these adorable bags from Michaels.  We used whatever I could find in the art supply room.

A friend of mine made these super cute "monster" valentine cupcakes with the kids.

and we did our annual cookie decorating. 

Are you doing any Valenining this year?

Happy Valentines Day to you!

Snowflake Ball

An inspiring idea and evening.  The girls' new school is amazing.  One event that the PAC puts on is an annual "Snowflake Ball", which is a father and daughter affair.  The girls recieved professionally printed invitations with reply cards and a Stephen Curtis Chapman CD with the song "Cinderella" (video linked).  The proceeds go to the Gaby Davis Foundation.

All the girls wore fancy dresses, some even had their hair done at the salon.  Accessories were a must, including corsages and even a few "high heels". Miranda pointed out to me that it was a "snowflake disco" complete with a DJ, disco ball and lots and lots of dancing.  Conga lines were frequently formed (according to an inside source).

There was eating, including a chocolate fountain, and plenty of photo ops. 

Definitely a night for Mark and the girls to remember!

Reading Gabby's story again, just makes me realize how important it is to cherish our relationships with our children.