Let It Snow...

I do really enjoy the snow, although I’m thankful that it doesn’t snow every year here like it has been snowing off and on the past week. It’s unfortunate that this area doesn’t know how to manage the snow a little better; otherwise it would be delightful to have around. However, the unpaved, unsalted and unsanded roads are beginning to be a nuisance for many I think. The other day there was a brief let up from the snow and I ventured out to take some pictures around Kirkland. The sunset was absolutely gorgeous down by the lake and it was just nice to get out of the house and get some fresh air. Along with my snow covered berries by the post office below are a couple photos from my walk around Kirkland. The close-up of the duck was not a zoomed in shot…that duck almost jumped into my lap he was so friendly. The picture of the sailboats with a Seattle sunset in the background is probably my favorite.

Ducks resting on the water.

My new little friend.

Sailboats at rest for the winter.

Gorgeous Seattle sunset.

Sun lit and snow covered tree.

Happy Birthday To A Dear Friend

Today is a dear friend's birthday. Happy Birthday to one of the most amazing women I know. How great it is to be your friend where I can laugh with you, cry with you, and just be silly together. You are simply the best and I hope you have a wonderful birthday. I love you Molly.

Fun in the Snow

We had a "snow day" on Thursday and all our neighbors in our complex took the day off. The following are pics of us walking up to Starbucks and spending some time together. We had a great morning "catch-up" with Danny and Becky, Trevor and Kjierstin, and Rachel (not pictured).

Bittersweet Moment

I have four days left. Only four days left with 18 of the cutest and most amazing little second graders in the world. Without question they have touched my life more than I could have ever imagined. As I sit and reflect upon my student teaching experience it amazes me how quickly the time has gone by and how I only wish I could spend the remainder of the school year with "my" class. I made a decision to venture down the "teaching" trail when others told me (and I finally realized) that I have the patience, passion, determination and satisfaction in touching the lives of kids. I do want to be an educator that does make that difference in a child's life, but in doing so I have never really thought about how much they would make a difference in my own life. I've enjoyed the laughs, the challenges, the many misspelled words, their creativity, their carefree spirtis, their desire to always "impress" their teacher, their eagerness to try and learn new things, their sutbborness, their messes, their sticky fingers, their muddy shoes after every recess, their chattyness, their storytelling, their humming and singing, the constant questioning, their shout outs (at the wrong times), but most of all their love for their teacher--me. As I part with them this Friday, it will be a bittersweet feeling, knowing that it will be difficult not only for me, but also for them, and that I will be stepping into a new stage of my life. I'm so thankful for the student teaching experience that I have had and I look forward to what lies ahead. I wish only the best for my 18 kids as they will always hold a special place in my heart.