Beautifying A Patio To Myles From Katie

Myles has a knack for seeing a space and seeing the potential of that space. He can take a boring old backyard and turn it into a beautiful place you would want to hang out in. So that is what I attempted to do for Elliot’s first grade class. They have a patio attached to their classroom where they spend part of their day writing or reading. So I did what Myles would have done and left it better than I found it. I took some old pallets and spray painted them and let the kids paint them. Then with Ben and another Dad’s help we mounted them on the wall. I added some lower planters made out of cinderblocks.  The kids painted those too. I added some pictures and a bird feeder and the kids planted bulbs and succulents. Now the kids have a nice inspiring place to learn and grow.

Before:

After

 Planting:

Giving Machine: To Ainsley from Aunt Nan

Hi Ainsley!- You are one of the most loving, thoughtful and peacemaker souls. I love the time we have got to spend together in Wyoming and Utah lately. This year we took a trip to the giving machine! I chose something for our family, but I chose something else specifically for you. I bought a goat for a village. Somehow I think you would've picked that as well! I love you Ainsley. I'm so happy we've been able to spend a lot of time together recently. Love Auntie Nan

Old friends visiting: To Spencer from Archer

My neighbor Debbie had her 9 year old grandson named Leo visiting. I know Leo when he has come before. This time he came for Christmas for a few days to visit his Grandma. I was playing soccer out front with my friend one of the days and we went to ask Leo if he wanted to play with us. Then he came and we played Hide and Go Seek. I think he had a lot of fun. The next day we were playing in the cul-de-sac and I invited him to play with us again. I wont see Leo very much again but I know it would help him feel comfortable being in California to play with friends. Leo said that he doesn't play sports very much but he was a really good soccer player. I thought about Spencer when Leo told me this. I remember that Spencer moved and had to try to make new friends just like Leo did when he was visiting in California.

I love Spencer because he is a friend to everyone. He tries hard to be nice and likes to try to do things he normally doesn't do. At least that's how I feel when he visits me in California. We go to the beach and swim and play legos. I love you SPencer. Love Archer.