heels and tea parties

We have had so many snow days lately it has been trouble deciding what to do on another cold day stuck inside.  Yesterday we went to the mall because I was going stir crazy but today Jacqueline planned the itinerary.  We had to change all the dolls clothes, and then dance in high heels (she could have danced all day!)
After that was a tea party followed by some baking (pink cupcakes of course).  All I can say is Jacqueline you are such a girly girl but you make me smile.





During all these days trapped inside we also did some Grace photos.  Just before Jacqueline turned one I did photos of her in a tutu and pearls and so I wanted some fun Grace photos too.  Here are a few of my favorites

A thankful heart

I had teacher inservice this week.  Typically that entail several hours of listening to things that only somewhat apply to my classroom and my life.  This was however very different.  We talked about thankfulness.  We watched a video and read articles about how thankful students actually do better in school and how to build a culture of thankfulness.  The awareness that we are blessed in each moment of our lives changes attitudes and causes individuals to try harder and work happier.  We also spent a lot of time talking about how we need to be thankful for what we have and that will make us happy.  The stuff you have is not what makes you happy, it is thanking God and realizing that you are blessed by God that makes you happy. I know I am blessed to have two such wonderful, happy, healthy, smart little girls.  I don't really believe in New Years resolutions but if there is something I want to work on this year, it is being thankful. 1 Thessalonians 5: 16-18 says Rejoice always pray continually, and give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. I think that says it all thanks and prayer that is God's will.

11 months

I will start with saying WOW 11 months have gone by fast.  As I plan for Grace's birthday it seems unreal my baby is so big.  Grace's top front teeth are finally starting to pop in place and she has taken a few steps on her own.

It's been a while since I have written while family was in town from Alaska I wanted to make sure we spent as much time with them as we could and then it seemed there was so much to write I would never find time to put it all down.  So I won't try, but I will say Jacqueline and Raylee had a blast together, playing going to the kids museum and paint a pot were just some of the fun.  And everyday since Jacqueline asks when Raylee is coming to play again.  (Spring Break seems far away. We will miss Raylee and Skyler until then.)