Spring is coming...

Last week we had a gorgeous day in the 70s, and by 8am the next morning it was snowing. 

Yesterday we had a return of the nice weather and then today a return of the freezing temps. I expect a few more storms to come befor this crazy winter is behind us. It's one we won't forget! 

Reading before bed

Katya loves these A to Z Mystery books that she has been checking out at the school library. During the beginning of the year they did not have access to the "chapter" books. Now that they do, she has been enjoying reading a lot more. These are much more at her level. She is required to read for at least 30 minutes a day; 10 to self, 10 to someone, and 10 being read too. This is in addition to "extra" math and weekly word activities and her regular math and language arts homework. I personally think that 1hr + is a bit much to ask of a first grader. She has precious little time to play on school days. But at least the reading part is fun. 

I scored the reading lamp at Goodwill yesterday for 9$. Woo-hoo! It is a little big but that's okay; saved at least 20 dollars from the lights I was looking at at Target. I do love me a bargain:-)

Katya's birthday last summer

I am still plugging away, trying to caught up with editing picture (all whilst taking more damn pictures:-)). Here are a few from Katya's 6th birthday in Portland. I was so thankful to everyone who came out to celebrate with us.