The Big Apple

This weekend, Jared and I enjoyed a fun getaway to the big NYC. We had some wedding festivities to attend for an old college friend/old roommate of Jared's, but other than that we had NO agenda. That's more that can be said for most of our weekends.

Of course, time with Jared is always a treasure, despite the zip code.

And I cracked up all weekend from the hilarious stories the old frat guys drummed up. Pieces of work, those guys...

It was fun being in NYC and not running around to see all the sights. Instead, we just took in some of it's beauty.

We said a quick "hi" to some fam.

And celebrated the love of some dear friends.

Much needed getaway. Lots of laughter. A breather in the big city. Awesome food. Good people.

Life is good.

Stacey

V-Day

Jared and I celebrated V-day by spending the day together on Sunday. We went to brunch atDream Cafe (FAVE!), took a walk in the 70 degree weather and fed the ducks by our pond (they apparently are not interested in 100% whole wheat), and we had dinner with my parents (LOVE!).

So that brings me to yesterday, Valentine's Day, which turned out to be the perfect trifecta of three of my favorite things...pink, sugar, and Pioneer Woman.

One of my students decided to bring me a Valentine's Day gift, which was so sweet, and what was sweeter was how excited he was to give it to me. It went a little something like this:

Student: Mrs. Chambers, I know how much you love cupcakes.

Me (decked out in pink, despite the fact that my students can't see that): YES (score!)

Student: I also remember how you do not like the frosting on cupcakes.

Me: Great memory!!

Student: So, for Valentimes (yes, he says it with an "m"), I licked the icing off this cupcake and brought it just for you.

There are no words.

After school, Paige and I zipped over to Borders to meet one of our favorite bloggers, Ree Drummond aka Pioneer Woman. We got there an hour early only to find out there were 400 people in line before us!!!! (I told you she is awesome!) Needless to say, we stayed for her Q & A and then jetted. It was SO fun, though, and we're glad we went!

Even Marlboro Man was there! :)

Then, Paige and I got some Pinkberry (blood orange is to die for), and she brought me home just in time for my sugar high (sans cupcake) to crash and to yell at the TV during the Bachelor. Whew!

LOVE,

Stacey

Snow My Gosh!

Well, we've enjoyed an unprecedented FOUR snow days in a row this week, and I couldn't be more content.

I'm pleased to say I've locked myself in the house except for a short outing last night down the road to the Teng's house to celebrate the Chinese New Year. What a treat!!

Paige and Austin making Chinese dumplings!

Pretty place setting

Taking a break from the dumpling assembly line!

Back at the house, I've been reading, catching up on my Oprahs, and Jared and I have enjoyed playing some of our favorite games:

Monopoly Deal (It's a miracle we are still married after today's throw down)

Perudo - a Peruvian dice game (beware, Jared likes to talk in his conquistador voice while we play)

Lastly, a fun game- Where's Buddy? Can you find him?

All in all, I cannot complain one bit about cabin fever or the inevitable make up days. I could not be more thankful for this time I've had to rejuvenate and relax in the comfort of my home. I am thankful more than ever for that comfort, as my heart's a bit heavy in prayer for my two sweet students who didn't have heat in their home as of Monday, knowing there is a space heater in my trunk that I was set to deliver to them Tuesday morning before our Texas-sized ice storm hit.

That being said, I am trusting that the Lord is providing, as He always does, and I hope you all take a moment to breathe this weekend, count your blessings, and enjoy those things that bring you comfort!!

Stacey