heat!

Goodness, it has been awhile since I wrote anything.  Today is very hot and humid.  About 30 degrees outside.  At least I didn't have to go out in it much - just ran to Safeway to get some fruit and to the post office to mail parcels.  Z is getting a cold; I guess D and I gave it to her.  I feel guilty.  Tato has been outside in the heat messing about, building shelves in the workshop and such.  After strep throat and a cold, I am finally feeling a bit better.  The kids are okay, and M only has 3 more days of school!  Summer will be fun!

garage sale fun

I took A's parents along this morning on our weekly garage sale adventure. A was at a course all day, so he wasn't with us. It was even more fun than usual - trying to translate back and forth with the dozen Russian words I know, and watching A's dad experience "second-hand" for the first time. He loaded up with a lot of good bargains, and the rest of us did too. The children each found some toys, which should keep them busy this week. We finished off at a house that had hotdogs for sale, so I didn't even have to make lunch! And next week, we get to do it all again!

in-laws

I probably have the nicest in-laws in the world. And, I am not being sarcastic. A's parents arrived almost two weeks ago for a visit of undetermined length. They have a visa for six months, so they may stay that long. At this point, none of us know. Anyway, I am already feeling stifled in my space, and I have to push myself extra hard to be hospitable and gracious. They don't speak English, which is a challenge when A is gone for work. Mama likes to cook and clean, and I like to take it easy (although cooking and cleaning get done when  - but I sure feel guilty relaxing when she is always busy. A says to stop worrying - that I worry more than she does. It is really nice to see the kids enjoying the visit with their Ukrainian grandparents.

L had a little friend over today for the first time, which actually went really well. They were talking a bit and playing together nicely. We will have to do it more often; hopefully it will help L build confidence with her speech.

The kids are loving the sun, back after a week or so of rain and cold. Goodness, I thought we were back in the Lower Mainland for awhile there!