Diversity and Football

This weekend was pretty fun. On Friday night the kids's school had a diversity night. They showcased lots of art work done by the kids, provided desserts from around the world, and had culturally inspired craft stations. My kiddos are all about the crafts. We showed up pretty late to the event, but still managed to hit all of the stations. We even ended up bringing some supplies home to work on some more.

Claire's art

Neil's art

Grace made a rain stick

My favorite of the crafts...the dragon mask.

On Saturday it was the 8th annual dad's football game. All the dads from our elementary school were invited to play against the dads of the other elementary school from our neighborhood. It was held at the high school football field and it was a really fun event. There were balloons, noise makers, cheerleaders, music, and lots of school spirit. It was so fun to see neighbors, friends, and teachers. They sold delicious caramel/oreo apples as a fundraiser. They even sliced them for us so that we could enjoy them at the game. It was quite the event. Even though our team lost, I'm so glad that we went. Chris didn't play this year, but after seeing how fun it was he will probably give it a try next year. 

So far

This year is off to busy start. It took us all some time to get back in the groove after our long Christmas break. Just waking up was rough that first week.

Even though we haven't really done much, I feel like we have kept busy. It's crazy that January is almost over. Here are some highlights....

Claire got braces put on. Here we go. We are expecting another 3 years for just her. (Yay!) She's handled it like a champ so far. No more gum around here.

Neil LOVES his new creeper backpack!! He uses it for school and shows everyone. He also loves the jacket, although most days he has still needed his warmer coat.

We set ourselves a goal for January to not go out to eat for the month. With this in mind I really needed to spruce up our regular menu items. I hate getting into a rut. I took to pinterest and raided my sisters' board for ideas. I've tried to make at least 2 new things each week. So far so good. I made these tasty rolls one night and another day I rocked pizza dough. Everyone approved.

Everyone ate the best ones faster than I could get a picture.

The biggest time commitment has been swim lessons. Neil and Grace are going twice a week all month. I will be so glad when it's over. They are having a blast though and making some good improvements.

Last weekend the girls both had evaluations for softball. It was a rainy day so they had to do their drills inside. I can't believe that practices will be starting soon. I'm not sure how I am going to survive all three of them in a spring sport. I hope I make it.

Other than that we have been trying to take advantage of some really beautiful weather. With the exception of a few rainy days here and there, we've had sun and 60's. On Monday we were able to be outside in t-shirts while we played catch together. It's a big difference from where we were last year. It was only 18 degrees in Virginia today and they are expecting a monster snow storm tomorrow. Pretty crazy how life can change. I kinda wish I was there. There's something really fun about hunkering down for a big storm. I'll just have to enjoy our sunshine instead.

Decorating the driveway