A scene from our home

These two have spent a lot of time at home together this semester. Naomi has been very understanding about times when Wesley has to work and enjoys talking on the phone almost as much as he does.

Valentine's Fun

I am so far behind in posts that I've decided to update on recent events and hopefully get back to the Christmas break stuff before too long.

The week leading up to Valentine's Day, we had fun with some heart themed crafts. My favorite was the shrinky dinks. I was super excited to see that they still make them and the kids were amazed watching their hearts shrink in the oven.


We also made strawberry flavored rice krispy treats. I used a candy mold to shape some hearts.


James addressed Valentines for his classmates. He chose paper airplane Valentines after a serious debate at Target.


James and I made felt flowers for his two teachers. Idea from here.


I wrapped them in tissue and tied the bunches with some ribbon. He was very proud of his gift and was all smiles as he handed them to his teachers.

James was so excited about his Valentine's Day party at school. All the kids love the idea of a party and all the treats, but it seems as though they never really eat that much or really like the sweets.


One thing he did love was opening all the Valentines from his friends at school.

We had a low-key Valentine's day in Albemarle. It was nice to have a dinner out with Wesley without the kids and we bought the new Sade CD for ourselves. The kids also enjoyed opening their Valentines that came in the mail while we were away.

Snow Days

At the end of January, we had a fairly large snow. At least for North Carolina. The most unusual part was that the snow didn't melt for over three days. We tried to get the kids outside as much as possible to enjoy it. Sadly, they do not feel the same way as I do about snow. Especially Naomi.

Day 1:

Naomi not thrilled about the sleet/snow still coming down.


The kids being pulled in our over-priced sled.


One and only run down the big hill.

The best part-hot chocolate after coming inside.


Day 2 (morning):

Snow angels in the sun.


Riding down a longer and less-steep hill. I just love how James' eyes are closed in all the sledding pictures.


"I want go home." Naomi still not thrilled by the snow and cold.

James and I sledding.



Day 3 (night): I think this was the most fun the kids had. We went outside after dinner and walked around the neighborhood. The sidewalks were mostly ice so it was perfect for slow rides down the sidewalk.