"Love on"

Another American phrase - to "love on" someone. I think it basically means to shower someone with love. As my father-in-law would say, "nice idea really". Bring it on!

Happy Birthday Scott!

Scott's birthday was beautiful and sunny. With the kids in school, we took the opportunity to go to the city for lunch. Still being freezing cold, there weren't many people around. We liked being able to see the river frozen over, and the skating rink at Millenium Park.

A moment of Gracie-bean

Gracie - in her dress-ups, showing her lizard her game.

Melting Ice

After having an icycle drop on my head (it hurt enough to need stiches, but unfortunately there was no blood, so I didn't really need stiches), I was happy to see the icycles melt in the sunshine. These were hanging off the eaves of our house.

Hobbit house

Chicago is known for its architecture. Besides the beautiful city skyline, there are also lots of interesting houses. I still drive around with my head swivelling from side to side looking at everything. It is a bit hard to get photos of houses, because of the one-lane roads, and suspicious owners.

Here are a few of our favourites.

The first one I like because it is the colours of my old school - Wesley. How often do you see a bright yellow house with a purple door?

The second one I just like. It's got a kind of English village feel to it, and again, I like the mix of colours and textures.

The third one just looks so cosy, and like a Hobbit house. It just needs a plume of smoke coming out of the chimney.

Grace's new haircut

Tired of having Mum yanking at the knots of her long hair, Gracie decided she wanted it cut short. It had to be short enough so it wouldn't go in her mouth when she tries to eat. She also wanted "bangs" (a fringe) so it wouldn't go in her eyes. Poor mummy misses her beautiful long hair, but Gracie loves her new haircut that is the same as a "Chipette" from the latest "Alvin and the Chipmunks" movie - and it does save time in the mornings before school!

Changing rooms

Moving the furniture is a good as a holiday - well, maybe not, but hopefully it makes life run more smoothly. Dante now has a bedroom to himself (until any guests come), the girls are sharing, and Scott has a better organised study space (when he gets it organised).