mid-April already?!

So here I am, sitting in my bedroom enjoying a nice rainstorm. Last weekend, Whoopi and I trekked to Vermillion for Easter break. I spent three days with my parents, brother, Aunt MB, Uncle Norb and cousin Michelle. It was a nice time, but as always I was excited to get back home to the Bud.

School has been crazy. Mother Nature should look into medication for her bi-polar condition-- one day we're sweating in the 90's, the next we're fearing a snow storm. I have to say that my students have been dealing with the weather quite well... better than I have!

 Some of my girls & myself

almost the whole class--took this picture using "PhotoBooth" and had it up on the SMARTBoard big screen, they were either cheesing out or confused about it!

The last weekend in March brought the excitement of THE HUNGER GAMES!!! Paulina, Kendra and I had made plans last Spring, when the premier date was released, that no matter where we were living we would meet in the middle to see the premier together. Well, Vermillion just so happened to be conveniently located directly between our locations. D&D were gracious enough to allow us their home for the weekend. Paulina and Brandon arrived Friday evening and stayed through Sunday afternoon. We spent the weekend soaking up the unseasonably warm weather, walking the paths of Vermillion. It was so nice to see them both, and I cannot wait for the arrival of their daughter (due July 3). 

 Brandoni & Pauli at the first permanent school house in South Dakota, Clay County S.D.

Brandoni & I with our pre-sale tickets to THG!!!!

A big thank you to my Aunt Pooh and Aunt Amy for the books donated to my classroom! What a thoughtful and generous action--the kids were really excited and pleased. Also, thanks for continuing to send your Box Tops my way!!!
Whoopi and I just said farewell to Ali! She rolled into town on Friday afternoon and spent the weekend with us! It was so nice to have some down-time with her that wasn't interrupted by anything or anyone. I don't realize how much I miss people until they've come and gone. Thanks so much for taking the time to stop in :)

I was talking with my cousin Marissa which got me thinking of the last ladies trip I took with her, Poohie, Grandma and my mom. Summer 2007 when they came to visit me while I was working at Wall Drug. When she's all done with school, we'll have to have a repeat trip!

 Riding through Needle Highway, Black Hills of South Dakota

Badlands National Park

I am getting very excited for May 4 to arrive. My dad and I will be traveling east to celebrate cousin Will's graduation from college! I am so proud of and excited for him. He is the best of the best and deserves all of the goodness in the world! It will be a high-flying trip, but will most definitely be worth the exhaustion.

Willie, myself, Thew & Pish @my graduation last May