Summer!

We're in the thick of our first week of summer. Still scrambling a bit to figure out the new routine - like how to squeeze in swimming lessons, physical therapy, work, summer camp, and some lazy summer days. I made a new housework schedule about three weeks ago and recommited to sticking with it. So far so good. It feels much better, and hey, my house is clean(er)!

We were treated to a wonderful show at Peace Montessori on Friday for the last day of school. (I can't believe the school year is already over) They did yoga for us - it was so fun to watch. Then there was a play in Spanish, which I didn't understand but it was cute, too. And finally, a they played several songs on their recorders. I was very impressed. There are a few photos here.I'm a little late with these gifts, but the recipients probably won't notice. Twins, Connor and Sienna, turned 3 last weekend and so I whipped up some summer garb for them. I'm working on a peasant skirt made with the leftover fabric for their older sister, but it's not finished yet. They are "Kai's Shirt" and "Smocked Sundress", both from Weekend Sewing by Heather Ross. The dress was especially simple - I wish I'd known how to do this a few years ago. I'm eyeing so many projects in that book - I can hardly stand it!

I got my hair cut - ahhhh, no more ponytails for a while. I like it - still very low maintenance, and just a little more hip. Now Sofia wants hers short too - we'll see. Well, we're off to the Hillman folks this week, before summer camp starts. Just the girls - maybe a walk or two to the park, a trip to the beach, and some visiting with Grandma and GrandDad.

Name This Bird

A new bird came flitting through the back yard and was in and out in 30 seconds. So, as usual my pictures are poor, through the window, fully zoomed and cropped. But this is definitely a bird I haven't seen before. I have a general idea, but I haven't pinpointed it. Any guesses?

It has a slight crest that's hard to see in the photo and there is a small branch crossing its face in the photo (not a white streak). Tail feathers spread and showed more rust when he flew off.