MPM and Other Things Including Decisions

So, Christmas and New Year... We decided to spend the entirety of our vacation with family. It was very nice being able to spend all that time together. A couple of my mom's sisters have made a new tradition... Every Sunday, they will all get together and cook and eat a lunch/supper. Whenever we are in town, I always make an effort to go. Since Aunt Carol died, I've been trying to get Ivy to spend more time with some of my relatives.

I have jumped on the hipster train. Lord help us all. It first started when I went to my mom's shop and got new glasses. A pair of retro-ish sunglasses. Then I decided to go ahead and get regular prescription lenses in the same frames. Retro/nerdy glasses! I was hesitant to wear them, but once I put them on, I haven't worn any other glasses since! And everyone has been complimenting them. Next, I got a couple pairs of skinny jeans with Christmas gift money. I wore them with my TOMS, and it didn't look bad. Then, I ordered myself some fake Uggs. Fuggs. Soooo comfy! Combine all that together with a flannel/plaid shirt and BLAMO! I'm a hipster.

We went back to work yesterday. Boooo! I just want to stay home and snuggle with Ivy and sleep. And drink hot cocoa and eat cutout cookies. And clean, clean, clean. I have really gotten my act together about keeping things clean and organized.

And speaking of organizing... Menu Plan Monday!

Sunday - Baked potato soup
Monday - LO soup
Tuesday - Appetizers
Wednesday - Appetizers
Thursday - Pizza
Friday - Pizza or Chicken pot pie
Saturday - Chicken salad

I received an email from one of my students the day before we went back to work. My sweet little rat friend that I had the pleasure of visiting my classroom for two weeks straight had died. I do miss the sweet little ball of fur racing to sleep on my neck. Before I had the opportunity, I never knew that rats could have so much personality and love the way they do. Everyone could tell she loved me. I know that sounds narcissistic but it's true... she would push away hands that grabbed at her when she would cuddle on me and she would find her way and race towards me when I was nearby. I do intend on having my own pet rat in the future. One for Ivy, one for me ;).

Today, we all took a break from our day to honor a local soldier who was killed in Afganistan on Christmas Eve. All of the students were lined up along the road in front of the school. Everyone was silent as the motorcade drove by. It is difficult for me to express my feelings on this. I am honored to witness the somber occasion. To all of the current and former military personnel, thank you for your service.