Flitter flutter, little butterfly

If you have never been to a butterfly house, you are truly missing a magical experience. The life cycle and movements of butterflies is fascinating, and to see several types of butterflies in one place, seemingly living in harmony with each other, is uplifting. For me, an even greater joy was to watch Nicholas and Aleah gleefully encountering different types for the first time at the Living Desert in Palm Desert, CA. "Look Mom! there's another one!" Nicholas was able to coax 5 different butterflies onto his hand and at one point there was anothere one on his back. He also managed to transfer one of the butterflies to Aleah so she could feel what it is like to have this delecate creature in her hand. And, because Nicholas was so comfortable, he was able to transfer a butterfly onto Grandma's hand too.

California look out - here they come!!

My Mom & John live the reasonably quiet life of retirees - but not the 14th - 20th! Nicholas and Aleah were like spinning tops, they were so excited to be on vacation. Their stated desire was to go to the pool, the pool, the pool some more, and if there was any time left over, maybe the Living Desert and the Children's Museum. Well, we managed to do all of that, plus the big park, the swanky Rancho Mirage Library and my favorite, the Street Fair - whew!!

Jump Rope for Heart

On February 12th, Nicholas joyfully participated in Jump Rope for Heart - a fundraiser for the American Heart Association. The event was held at his elementary school for the 19th year in a row - and he was quite proud to be a part of it. I served as a parent volunteer and had a great time holding ropes, serving snacks and cheering on the teams. I felt bad for Nicholas though, because he had soccer practice too, and gave great effort there. He ate voraciously at dinner, begged for "just a quick shower", then nearly fell into bed. What a great kid!