April Celebrations

It's been a week full of celebrations. 

Wednesday:  A Library Soirée

My colleague and I hosted a reception in the library this week, celebrating all the new books that had recently come in. We had a good turn out, and people seemed to enjoy themselves. But then, what's not to enjoy about shiny, new books and free wine and cheese? Anyone notice the book Stephen just happened to grab for the photo? How Children Succeed: Grit, Curiosity, and the Hidden Power of Character written by Paul Tough (Jon's cousin!).

Thursday:  Cupcakes with the KB Class

Denis turned 6 this week (SIX!), and we kicked off the birthday celebrations with cupcakes in his classroom. His classmates sang to him in Spanish, Japanese, and English. Someone said, "We should sing in Russian!" Ahh, if only we'd thought to learn this! (Note to self: learn the birthday song in Russian.) Denis has had such a good time in KB this year. He's got a great teacher and a great group of friends. Lucky boy!

Friday:  A Birthday Party and a TGIF

A few weeks ago Jon and I were trying to decide what to do for D's birthday party. When we stopped and considered what kids really like to do (play with their friends, eat pizza, drink juice) and what parents really like to do (sit around, talk, drink wine!), we decided to combine the birthday party with a TGIF. Win, win!

Saturday Morning:  Food & Fun Fair and the Parade of Nations

The school's annual FFF was this weekend, and the first event, as always, was the Parade of Nations. Students dress in national costumes or something that represents their home countries. Russian hockey jerseys work for us!

Saturday Evening:  Birthday with the Family

Denis got to choose what he wanted for his birthday dinner, and all I'll say is that the initials start with McD... (Really, Denis?!) After a quick dinner (that's the thing about fast food - it's quick!), we headed home and opened gifts. Our LEGO-crazy, ninja-crazy, book-crazy boy was happy to receive all the surprises waiting for him. Thanks to all who sent birthday wishes and/or gifts his way! 

Earlier in the Week:  The Anti-Birthday Celebration

Poor Dima didn't understand why it wasn't his birthday I was baking cupcakes for. He knows his birthday is coming soon (He asks everyday: "Dima bird-day party?"), and it made him oh-so-sad when we told him the cupcakes were for Denis's birthday party. Good thing he doesn't have long to wait. Although, I suppose two weeks can feel like an eternity to an almost-three-year-old...