i've been saying that once i get the downstairs tidied up, i'd make a batch of strawberry jam. i've been saying that for more than a week, i think. but yesterday, the stars must have aligned. and i made the jam.

the last of the thomas run kittens are ready to find homes. black walnut was already expecting when everyone made their trip to the clinic for a "nip and tuck", if you know what i mean. now that her kittens are weaned and ready for homes, she'll be getting the same treatment at the end of the month. it's so fun to have the kittens around, but i'm glad to no longer add to the population.

i have always enjoyed watching my children's interests ebb and flow for certain toys. i love seeing what this week's big interest is, and how sometimes that interest sticks, and sometimes, they quickly move on. this week's obsession is the writing of a play for their stuffed animals, to be performed over the weekend. it is requiring lots of practice time. lots of writing and re-writing. and lots of time together. that's the part i love most of all.

my camera did not capture this moment the way i was experiencing it, but it was one of those sweet, quiet moments you cherish. the light from the sunset was coming through my bedroom windows and across the bed where birdy was in that ready-for-sleep, still, peaceful state. i sat there with her for quite awhile enjoying that moment.

hope you're finding a few still, peaceful moments today, as well.