Chinese New Year 2016 - The Year of the Monkey

Another Chinese New Year has come and gone, and while we haven't experienced the world's windfall of prosperity, we're pretty content and blessed with the wealth of love and laughter in our home. The Families with Children from China party was once again a huge success - and Annie really enjoyed the Lion Dancers (with earplugs to drown out the cymbals and drums.) Both girls were absolutely lovely in their silks, and we all left well fed.

Winner Winner...

And what was I doing while the storms were raging? Discovering just how easy it is to use my pressure canner to can chicken and homemade chicken stock. Yum! Can't wait to get some more chicken on sale and really stock up my pantry. This made the most divine chicken and dumplings in a matter of minutes a few nights later.

Groundhog Day Blizzard

Once again, the groundhog couldn't see his shadow for all the snow that fell. It wasn't as big of a blizzard as anticipated, but it was enough for a few days off school, a cute little snowman (sorry, no picture) and a few runs downhill on the sleds. Even Mom and Dad got out and rode the sled runs a few times. 

Saturday Scones

My mom is the queen of Saturday scones. She makes a different kind every week, and my dad is happy to sample. I miss my mom and Saturday scones. But I was thrilled when Dayna brought a cookbook home from the library and made these cranberry orange gems all by herself. Even better...she cleaned up after herself!

D.A.R.E.

Dayna and her classmates had their D.A.R.E. graduation on Friday. A local police officer has come to their class every week this year to talk to the students about making good decisions, resisting peer pressure, and knowing the dangerous affects of issues like drugs, tobacco, alcohol, and internet safety.

49 Years!

Just had to give a shout out to this incredible couple who has set the bar high in their example of a marriage that honors God first, each other second, and then their family. Their priorities and selflessness for so many years have been an inspiration, and I'm proud to call them my parents. Happy Anniversary, Mom and Dad!

Symphony with My Girl

Dan's parents shared their symphony tickets with Dayna and I this month. It was fun to watch her engaged the whole time, watching the pianist, the cellos, and even the percussionists (a pretty nice gig - 4 cymbal strikes in an hour, but the same pay scale!) She was making some really nice observations about bow holds, musician posture, acoustics, and the different meters of different pieces. I love watching her love for music blossom.

A night out with my girl was pretty special, too!