The Magazine Subscription Milestone

The scene as seen from the kitchen window.

I just paid for a magazine subscription. It's for a weekly magazine, no less. I decided it was time for me to spend more time reading about current events, and less time flailing around on Facebook. More importantly, I realized that time is precisely the missing link here: I have it, and boy does it feel good.

To be clear, it's all still relative, and I still bemoan the limitations of preschool hours. However, Laura is gaining independence, learning how to amuse herself. She still prefers to do so in close proximity to me more often than not, but it's progress nonetheless. (She's also significantly more adept at this skill when Tim is in charge. Hmmm.)

Meanwhile, Danny has made overtures with the kids in the house behind ours, which has led to more social activity for him and, occasionally, Laura (see above photo). While Clare has developed a social life for herself that is quite impressive, the other two were in need of some nearby pals, so this is a huge win. HUGE.

Too bad the news I'm now reading isn't as pleasant...

Spring Break For All Of Us

The idea behind this particular post title is two-fold: One, we enjoyed Tim's company for most of the trip, which is not typical for us for spring break; and two, this might well be the last joint spring break, since we got word while on vacation that Clare was accepted to Marist (and that esteemed institution is on a different schedule from CKS, alas and alack).

We all really enjoyed our time off, too. The weather was perfect for daily pool time and multiple trips to the incomparable beach on Siesta Key. Donna and Larry worked their usual magic as hosts, offering a blend of our favorite destinations along with fun, new outings. We really are so blessed.

Hard to say what next spring will bring, but right now we'll bask in the glow of this year's trip!

Sarasota Easter 2015

We enjoyed another joyous, gorgeous Easter with Donna and Larry in Sarasota! The day began in Easter finery and a lovely mass, followed by brunch, an egg hunt, then a trip to the beach before a feast of lamb on a stick. Hard to imagine a better way to celebrate!