Bits and Pieces: March

So March went by, and I forgot to write on this blog. I just remembered today that I should do an end of the month post.

We had Clare's conference with her teacher. She is doing very well academically, but needs to work on keeping her work space clean. This came as no surprise to me. She is a little hoarder at home. I knew right away which desk was hers, even without a name tag. She and the other kindergarten girls are also having problems getting along, apparently. Clare claims she is completely innocent in this, but her teacher says otherwise. We have been talking a lot about respecting other people's opinions since the conference.

I went on a field trip with Clare's class to Dodge Nature Center. I had never been there before. It is a beautiful place. We learned about making maple syrup, and tasted sap from the trees and the maple syrup they make there. I loved riding the bus with Clare. It was also fun to see her friends in person.  I hope to be able to do more of these types of trips once Christopher starts school. It is hard for me to get away right now, with two little ones to watch.

Clare has started playing Minecraft. I still only vaguely understand what it is, but she connects to our friends' server and plays with her buddies James and Simon. She is also reading a lot. I am thrilled that she shares my love of reading and she is doing very well reading on her own.

Christopher has been being three. He throws a lot of tantrums. Luckily, he gives up quickly. He has started writing some letters and recognizes his name when it is written down.  He also knows how to spell one word. Unfortunately, that word is poop.

We were at the park on Saturday, and he climbed (with help) onto a large rock. I was hovering, ready to help him jump down. He refused my help, saying, "I am big and I am brave!" Then he flexed his biceps. It was pretty hilarious.

The kids had a few birthday parties this month, but other than that we haven't had much scheduled on the weekends. My dad came to visit for a few days while my mom was in Europe. The kids were thrilled to see him. I was also happy.

I've been going to a weekly trivia night with friends. It is really just an excuse to drink beer, but it has been fun. I also booked a trip to Sonoma for September with my college friends. It should be wonderful.

Clare has Spring Break this week. Wish me luck.

Clare in traditional Hmong dress at the Multicultural Fair at her school.

Christopher coloring a South Korean flag at the Multicultural Fair. He was distressed that his didn't match the example.

He wasn't sure what to think about the Sesame Street show we ran into at MOA. Later, he was disappointed that Cookie Monster "didn't show up."

Christopher wanted a ponytail, like his big sister.

Clare made a closed sign for her door. Lovely.

My two Irish kiddos on St. Patrick's Day.

Clare and I have had a weekly Starbucks date after her swimming lesson. I love having one on one time with her.

Clare looking for sap at the Dodge Nature Center.

Ice cream with Baba at Snuffy's.