The snow is gone

The snow is finally gone out of our yard. There are a few lingering snow banks in the neighborhood, but all of our snow is gone. It is a big day. It means that soon it will dry out and we will reclaim a large part of our home -- our back yard. EG can entertain herself for hours outside. However, she is getting to be a pro at that skill inside as well.

About a month ago we started making a conscious effort to help her learn to play by herself. When we all get home from school, we encourage her to go and play in her "office" or in her kitchen by herself. Some days she plays by herself for an hour and other nights she doesn't make it 10 minutes. It is fun to watch her create fun for herself and to see her imagination grow.

Last weekend, we made St. Patrick's Day cupcakes and Wednesday night she told us that tomorrow is green day at Miss Kaffy's (her daycare). She didn't think she had anything green, but we dug around and found a t-shirt that is too big and a hoodie that is perfect. She fell in love with the hoodie and fought to wear it to nap -- which she lost.

We went and spent the night at Gma and Papa's on Friday -- what fun. Some of EG's cousins were there which made it even more fun. We also get to see Ninna soon...

A few pics: cupcakes, St. Patrick's day outfit (she looked like a boy) and her curls...







E -

Spring? Not yet...

I grew up in the South. March should be spring. Easter was the first day of sunbathing season. I think my older sister came to Easter dinner covered in suntan oil for years. However, I now live much farther north -- much farther.

March isn't anywhere near spring. Yes, the snow is melting and it isn't -4 (for the high), but I can still see snow and everything is still very gray and dark. There are hints of change. The sun stays up longer. I can see some gray looking grass. I went to the mall today and didn't even take a coat. The biggest sign of spring is my growing desire to wear flip-flops outside, which I will do around 50 degrees (it used to be 60 degrees was my limit for showing toes, but I have had to lower my standards).

We have also started spring shopping for EG. We spend a lot of time looking for good deals and stocking up for next winter. We are buying a mix of 3T stuff for spring and summer and 4T stuff for next winter -- I got a cream turtleneck 4T for $2.89 at Gymboree today. I love buying her clothes and getting deals on all of them. We really only splurge on shoes. Her feet deserve the best.

We have an Easter dress for EG, but it might not be warm enough. Luckily, Easter is very late this year so we might have a shot at her wearing it.

Here are a few pics for the fans!