Coyans in the Czech Republic

a small corner of the world where human hearts and human hands conjured up fairytales

on a medieval door in Český Krumlov, Czech Republic

daybook

january 19

Outside my window...I can see the snow melting. It is sunny and getting warmer. It is actually 2 degrees outside...above zero!!! I am bummed. I really haven't gotten enough sledding or chilly days, fires in the fireplace and softly falling snow that covers everything in heavenly mounds of white. I'm not ready!!!

I am thankful for...God's word. Which is a light unto my path.

From the kitchen...cake. German chocolate cake with vanilla coconut frosting. I made it to thank a neighbor. I have to explain something to you. Here in CZ (and I am sure in many other places) if someone gives you something on a plate or in a container you CANNOT return the plate or container empty. That would be so rude. And every favor is paid back in baked goods. I am getting fat. My student came over yesterday asking for clarification on homework that I had assigned her. She then returned minutes later, bearing a plate of cakes, having been thoroughly scolded by her grandma for not bringing me the cakes to thank me. So, I then whipped up a cake of my own so that I could return the plate forthwith filled with baked goods for them. No pressure!

I am wearing...a maroon beaded camisole, oatmeal knitted cardigan, burgundy, orange and gold scarf to protect my aching throat from the cold air, dark blue jeans and gold and wood dangly earrings.

Pondering these words... "Never break an engagement when one is made, whether of a business or socail nature. If you are compelled to do so, make an immediate apology either by note or in person." Correct Manners, a Complete Handbook of Etiquette (late 19th century)

I am going...to see a friend tomorrow whom I haven't seen in about 6 months. I am meeting her at a local cafe that has a Balinese theme. The man who runs it creeps me out. Should be good for a laugh...or cringe.

I am reading...Darwin's Radio by Greg Bear...anothe excellent science fiction book that I received for Christmas. His best work is Forge of God...that one is incredible. But this is definitely a good read. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Darwin

I am still hoping...the snow stays until late February so Frank and Tony can go sledding with us.

I am hearing...Roxie playing a video game and Rebekah organizing something in her bedroom. Rebekah stayed home from school today as she was really sick during the night and morning. She is feeling better now but we had to cancel our friends' visit so now we have a free afternoon. i think we will watch a movie after I blog and grade papers. MID-TERMS!!! AAAUUUGH!!!

Around the house...we are planning to turn our under-the-stairs storage nook into a hideout. The girls have drawn up plans, including, but not limited to: murals, lighting scheme, furnishings, storage solutions, flooring and relaxation resolutions (pillows and blankets). Or one of them could just live there a la Harry Potter.

One of my favorite things...being caught up on my lesson plans. I have finished planning through May so now when I have free time I can really be free. All that hard work first semester is paying off now.

A few plans for the rest of the week: try to make dentist appointments again, try to go to the doctor again, check out a new school for Rebekah (anyone know anything about Waldorf schools?)

Here is picture for thought I am sharing...