For Today…April 13, 2009
Outside my Window…It is looking more like spring every day. I had hoped to walk down the road this afternoon to take a picture of our neighbor’s early-blooming pink rhododendron, but didn’t have the time. Those delicate blooms are such a cheery indicator of spring.
I am thinking…it will be weird if it snows this evening, but snow is predicted for 10pm and again at 4am in the morning. Our foothills have retained their topcoats of snow all winter, and so far this spring. That’s the coldest I’ve ever experienced here in the approximately 30 years I’ve lived in this part of the country. I guess snow is conceivable, then.
From the learning rooms…Our state-required academic tests begin at the middle school tomorrow. This is a busy time for all of us. We try to ease the stress on students as much as possible, encouraging their folks to make sure the kiddos get enough rest and a proper breakfast each morning. Parents share the responsibility of providing nutritious snacks on testing days, as well.
I am thankful for…the wonderful, hard-working teachers and administrators with whom I work who want success for all their students. At the Parent/Teacher/Student/Administration meeting I attended this evening, our district superintendent told us that our school district is making a concerted effort to reach out to home school families, to meet any special needs they might have. That’s progress, I think!
From the kitchen…I’ve recently prepared a nummy barbecued beef in my slow cooker, a creamy Cheddar Vegetable Chowder, apple dumplings, and Plum Pudding Cake. I’m thankful for delicious left-overs, because I had to go out so much this evening, first shopping for my elderly mom, and then to the PTSA meeting.
I am wearing…school attire: dressy black skirt, multi-colored long-sleeved top, and hooded red sweater. I still need to bundle up. It’s not warm here yet.
I am reading…many friends’ blog posts, and praying for some of them who are going through hurting times.
I am hoping…all of the students with whom I work will give their very best effort during this testing time. C’mon, kids! Show what you know!
I am creating…this blog post.
I am hearing…the click-clack of the old doggy’s nails on our wooden stairs. She must be looking for one of the children.
Around the house…The lawn has been dethatched, but the first mowing of the season has not yet happened. The grass is definitely greening up, and a few brave dandelion blossoms are sprinkled here and there on the lawn.
One of my favorite things…is being home with my family at the end of a busy day.
A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week…I want to cook some good dinners this week. Haven’t thought farther than that yet, though.
Here is a picture thought I am sharing with you…
This wild trillium grows by our driveway. I look forward to its reappearance every spring. I apologize for the poor picture quality. I’m still experimenting with my cell phone camera. 😛
Hostess Peggy says this about The Simple Woman’s Daybook:
Are you content to linger on the simple things of life…then join me in taking a little look into the day plans and thoughts of those of us who are focusing on simplicity…the beauty of the everyday moments around us. That is my vision for this idea!
Did you end up getting snow? It’s raining here now – we’re finally warm enough for it to be doing that rather than the snow…but we’re not through April yet!!