It Has Been Awhile . . .

So that post that said I couldn't blog until my grading was done? Well, I was sticking to it and forcing myself to grade paper after paper, rather than share photos and random ramblings with you all. That grading? Still not done. I made the mistake of assigning six short stories for my students to write, two of them needed to be turned into final drafts but I would still read and comment on the other four. Such a rookie mistake. Each student's work takes me about 20 minutes to grade and I can only stay motivated for so long. I don't even have two classes worth finished yet. Today during Lilly's morning nap (an hour and a half!) I cranked through about five, speeding myself up, limiting my comments and trying really hard to stay focused. I absolutely must get these papers graded before winter break is over. What I should be doing is taking more advantage of the free Lilly-sitting I have at my disposal with two sets of grandparents around while we are in Eau Claire but during the school year my time with Lilly is so limited, I want to be soaking up as much time with her now as I can. And, free babysitting also means Nick and I could spend some time together just the two of us. That we have taken advantage of, going skiing together and then picking up Chipotle burritos for ourselves and others. (Yes, we went into the restaurant with our ski boots and ski clothing on, and yes, we ran into an old high school friend while we were there.)

Don't worry, I haven't forgotten about all you blog readers (who I know are really just here for pictures and stories of Lilly) and will keep on trucking on those papers so I can update you more thoroughly before this vacation is over. Here are a few Lilly photos to keep you smiling. I cannot believe she is ten months old!

Lilly's first injury! She fell on a piece of doll house furniture at Meghan's. The girl is one tough cookie - no crying, just picked herself up and continued on her merry way.