Five on Friday!

What a week! The weather has gone from winter to spring in a matter of days (with more winter weather possibly to come...really?!) Combining the weather, meetings and G's random waking at odd hours of the night, I'm grateful that Friday has come. I've missed you friend! Please join me and others for this week's Five on Friday!

[one]
We had a nice bit of snow at the beginning of the week that provided two unexpected snow days at home. We thoroughly enjoyed getting G out in the snow.

 

[two]
Our precious GEM turned 11 months old this week! It's hard to believe that we'll soon be celebrating her first birthday. I began a journal for her when I found out I was expecting and I've recently been thumbing through the pages. There is a mingling of joy and sadness among the pages but I look forward to giving it to her one day. I hope it will reaffirm the love we have for her and that it will serve as a constant reminder of just how much she was is wanted, how much she was prayed for and how much hope we invested into God's goodness and provision.

[three]
With her birthday, now less than a month away, I thought I should really begin planning. I've tried to savor every milestone and moment with her this past year. While crunch time is just around the corner, I've started getting serious about some of the ideas I've pinned to a secret Pinterest board. I also sent out her invitations this week. I found many designs that I like but had a hard time justifying the cost...so I came up with my own, sent the design to Walmart, and had them printed and sent to my house, all for around $4.00.

 

 

[four]
A few weeks ago my principal, who is amazing by the way, requested some "shamrock shake" cupcakes. I have never had a Shamrock Shake but from what everyone has said, it is a basic mint flavored shake. I looked over several variations for this type of cupcake, but in the end, came up with my own. While it is similar to many you'll find, I opted for a mint flavored butter cream and of course, it was all homemade. I can't wait to surprise her with them today!

 

[five]
My students set a behavior goal a few months ago that would reward them with an outdoor reading time. They recently met their goal and today is the day! We've waited for nice weather and, for at least today, it has arrived. My students, along with some of their parents, will be throwing blankets on the ground with a few good books, and will soak up the sunshine as they read. I'm really excited for this opportunity to get them outside and to further encourage their love of reading. We'll be having a "picnic" as well with various goodies that have been graciously provided by some of the parents.