Thankful...

Today I had my students write in their journal about what they are thankful for. I thought that I would join them (in no particular order):

1. My family. I would be nothing without the support of my family.


2. My education. My career depends on it!

3. My friends. There is something to be said about late night WalMart/Target runs and Wendy's Twisted Frosties...and late night phone calls...

4. The existence of planes. They allow me to travel to see said family and friends

5. Health insurance. I didn't have it for a year and a half. It is nice to have it back...

6. This little girl. She makes me want to make the world a better place for her.

7. My fun roommates, both past and present.

Sorry, this is the most recent picture I have of roommates. But I love you all, I promise!!

8. Harry Potter. Really, it is so enjoyable!

9. My love of reading. Although I have abused it over the years, I am so grateful that I love to read!

10. My traveling experiences. They have helped shape me into the person that I have become.


11. My ability to teach. I get so much pleasure when my students finally "get" something!

12. My membership in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. I know exactly where I would be without it...its not pretty...

13. Music in my life. I wish I could have music around me at all times...

14. My school - this includes the students and teachers I work with. AMAZING! I have learned so much from them!

15. Good evaluations from my boss. It makes me feel like I made the right choice to stay here...

My loves...

I love a lot of things. To name a few:
1. Traveling (give me a plane ticket and I am yours. figuratively.)
2. Alysia (my roommate who is sitting next to me. and told me to type this)
3. Sleep (does this really need an explanation?)

But there are things that I love more than anything. One thing that I truly love is Abby, Laura's daughter. I spent time with her during Spring Break and I tell you, this little girl has my heart...

I think it is funny that in both pictures, she has a pacifier. I promise, it is not always in her mouth!!

Another thing I love is cooking/baking. Tonight, I decided to try making gnocchi. Have you ever tried it? Heaven. After a few trial boilings, I finally got the timing right and paired my gnocchi with pesto. Success!!

Meet Abby

Laura had a baby. 2 weeks late. The baby was supposed to be born on Dec. 24th, but she decided that she would rather stay put. Laura was finally induced on January 6th and delivered Abigail Maria on January 7th at 2:36 pm.

I finally got to meet Miss Abby this weekend and let me tell you, I am in love!!
She mostly sleeps when we are together (and those are the most delicious moments) but I think that we are going to be best friends. Here is a small peek at our weekend together...

Abby and Tita (Laura and I picked that nickname for me). I literally got off the plane and went straight to Laura's house.

This was at our first girls night in (Takeout and Doris Day movies. Life is good!)

She does sleep a lot.

I actually stole this picture from Laura, but I wanted you to have a good look at the gorgeousness of this baby...

Our last afternoon together...