Another catch-up

...since posting regularly just isn't going to happen right now.:)

I posted a pic of our beloved rattie girl Violet because she died a couple weeks ago and we miss her a ton. Freebie is missing her too and acting pretty depressed. Other than that, we've had a really fun January:

Let's see...
we've visited Biltmore estate and now have a yearly pass so we can go visit anytime we feel like making the drive over the mountains. Sierra plans to go once a month, but this month isn't looking too good, February is definitely on the scope though. It will be awesome to see the change of seasons at the garden.

We all went ice skating up in Bristol one day earlier this month. It was nice to know I could still skate just fine in spite of having missed many, many years. I grew up skating in Alaska of course, as it was a winter (and sometimes summer) ritual. The kids think it's totally bizarre that I used to skate and ski during recess at school. Heck, even in high school we did cross country skiing for P.E.! Different world up there.

Both Jared and Sierra informed me that if we ever get rich, they want an ice skating rink in the house. Personally, I've got my eye on a lovely wind turbine.;)

I've been working in bits and pieces on a project for MAC, to enable me to step into the "product specialist" position. I spent last night hanging out with the photographer that helped me with the photo shoot I set up, choosing and photoshopping the pictures I want to use. He's such a totally creative and amazing photographer, he's got me inspired to learn more and do more with my pictures. I'm really excited about how the project is coming together. I'll make sure to post some pics when it's complete.

On another work related note, I head down to Chattanooga next week for training. The best part is that I'll get to see Mindy (fellow unschooler) for a quick visit the night before. One of the cool parts about my job is getting to visit other parts of the region and getting paid for it.

Today is extra special because we're celebrating Jalen's Birthday. He officially turns six years old on February 2nd, but we're having his party today. Sierra and I made some pancakes this morning and brought him a tray with pancakes, strawberries and cream and a cuppa tea. The pancakes had a candle of course and we sang to him while he was still rubbing his eyes waking up. He looked a bit baffled, but enjoyed breakfast immensely! He's decorating me with a Spongebob Birthday hat as I type this. I feel so glamorous.:)

Jalen shares his Birthday with a special friend of ours, Ben Lovejoy. So Happy Birthday Ben and Jalen (a bit early) and happy groundhog day everyone!