Briefly, a Pelican

I've been searching for the last hour, and this is the closest picture to the bird that I saw in my neighborhood this morning. I was just driving through a little part of the neighborhood where a creek runs under the road, when a large, gray bird swooped across the road and landed in the marsh-like stream.

I don't live in an area that is extremely rural. I think it must be hard for---whatever water bird I found-- for it to have to find food in Leesburg.

Poor guy. I hope he finds a frog or two.

Feeling like I've lost my marbles

For two reasons.

1. I had an eye exam today. Pupil dilation. 'Nough said.

2. TRNA Charlene.


Let me explain.

Trina found a jar of marbles...yesterday. Since then, I have yet to see her without them. Truly, she has been playing with them non-stop. Mom says that yesterday it interfered with schoolwork, I've already seen it delaying her chore duty, but it is almost hard to be mad because she is COMPLETELY happy when playing with those 161 glass balls.

Oh, how did I know there are 161? Because she's told me three times since dinner.

Well, having lost my marbles, I did a little search, and in searching I found hope. Play this little minute of film, and I dare you not to smile.




Carpe Diem indeed!

I Got on My Snuggie!

After this Christmas, six people in my family now own these remarkable blankets with sleeves.




Thanks, Heather! (She wanted this Snuggie for her birthday, and started the whole trend).

Do you see Virginia?

It's all white. Our yard has 24 inches of snow atop the grassy lawn.

Church today was canceled. Considering the fact that all our beasts of burden were in the mire, we shoveled our driveway and our cars out today. Remember our long driveway? We did some math. We figured out that, since the average cubit foot of snow weighs about 15 pounds, we (Aaron, Katy, Heather, Trina, Sarah, Joel, and even Mom and Dad) shoveled 80 tons of snow.

That's about 3-9 tons each....depending on age and work ethic.

I am mightily grateful that school is closed for our county tomorrow and Tuesday. The only downside to this gorgeous snow storm is the fact that Dan and Melinda were stuck for a day in San Fran trying to get home. We hope to see them within the hour, though.

Christmas is in sight!

Did I ever tell you that I love 4th grade?

Because I do.

Friday morning. Elementary School. Here's the story:

I walk into a 4th grade teacher's classroom. I had spent the morning in the Resource Room helping a few students with their morning work. As I came to the classroom, the teacher saw me, paused what she was doing, and came over. She whispered: "Did you hear what William called you this morning?" I shook my head. Teacher continues, "William came up to me and said, "Excuse me. Could I go to Ms. Homecoming's room to do my morning work?"

My day was officially made.

In honor of the current weather in VA

It's Christmastime!

This is perhaps my favorite month in the entire year. Especially when, as is today's case, some white precipitation covers the ground. Leaves who have lost their trees become closet hangers for a snowy wardrobe. I LOVE snow.

I also love December. The talks in church focus on the Savior, people are more open to serving others, and even to accepting service themselves. People start to think about helping others. I am reminded of how much I appreciate my Savior and Redeemer.

Christmas music (ever the listening tradition on my birthday) can be played 24/7, people in stores can wish you not just a good day but a happy season as well, Marie helps us make and hand-dip chocolates, I get to learn how to play the Nutcracker music for an orchestra concert, the woodstove is stocked and burning fragrant hardwood logs, and we make some delicious food.

I can't believe it is only days until Christmas! But that means it's only 19 days until Chimichangas.

It IS the most wonderful time of the year.