Trick or Treat!

I have been looking forward to this night since I moved in in June.  I did not allow any scheduling conflicts, made sure my workout was early in the afternoon, and filled my pumpkin-shaped bowl with candy.  My string of little Jack-o-Lantern lights came on at 5:00 on the dot, lighting the way to my door.  After months of waiting I  finally greeted my first trick-or-treaters-- the beautiful weather brought far more than expected.  What a joy it has been to share treats with so many little ones in their creative and extravagent outfits!  I have definitely been blessed by all the sweet, little faces (disguised though they were) that rang this doorbell.

Happy Halloween!

Auburn and Gold

Holden and I spent the morning hiking through the golden aspens.

 He pulled a dead tree out of the ground.

It was the perfect birthday present.

Love you, little bro :).

Naomi BobbiSue Lucia

My niece.

 She is perfect.

They are so happy.

She wasn't pleased with the Buff's performance against Ohio State today.

阿姨

I'm going to be an Auntie!!!!!!!!!! Heehee. I am ridiculously excited to watch Tony and Kasia introduce a new life to the world! Not to mention the fact that they are letting me be a part of her little life. She and I will have both been born in the year of the rabbit: 兔子.

I will be ayi (ah-yee). Coincidentally, I called myself "ah ah Lee" when I was learning to talk. My money is on her saying my name first :).

Go Figure

I went to school to study piano. Then I figured it would be wise to continue studies for a more "practical" degree, so I chose to complete my MA in elementary education. It was therefore my assumption that I would pursue a career as an elementary school teacher (which I will most likely still do). For now, however, I am working 40+ hours a week playing my instrument.

Love it!

Woo!

I weeded the garden and mowed the lawn. Oh, how I love to play outside! It serves my heart so well.

Teenagers

I am working with teenagers. A lot of teenagers.

At times they are kind and generous. At others they show a seeming lack of respect and classroom etiquette. They are full of energy, spontaneity and confusion, and are evidently ever-changing.

I have a lot to learn: names, sign language, music, culture, leadership...the list goes on.

What a great challenge.