It's beautiful out today. The sun is shining and it's around 50 degrees - definitely a treat for South Dakota in February. The downside, of course, is that all of the snow (just a few inches actually) is melting and it's very muddy. I hate letting Lucy in and out on days like this.

Accalia and I treated ourselves to chocolate ice cream cones at Dairy Queen before heading to the library. Accalia insisted on wearing this heavy pea coat that's been hanging in her closet all winter - first time she's wanted to wear it. Anyway, we went to the library and loaded up on books, videos and books on tape. I was searching for some of the books recommended in a recent issue of Magical Childhood. Alicia puts out a great newsletter, and it's always full of fun ideas and helps remind me of all of the simple things out there that kids really enjoy.