Once a week when the “big” girls have gym, my eldest son and I get to visit the library together. The library is one of our favourite places and the hour never seems long enough.

We wander through the children’s section.

Pick some favourites.

Even find some treasures.

Then we snuggle up on the big cushions on the floor (ignoring the impulse to wonder what those things might be breeding) and read together.

At home it is rare to have reading time alone with mommy. As soon as a reading is requested by one child all the others come running to find a prime spot on my lap…ankle, shoulder, head – whatever is still available.

An hour alone to read together is a special treat…

…aren’t I fortunate to receive such an honour!?

This weekend amongst boards games, play dough, reading and Playmobil, our weather (mercifully) warmed up and we headed to the zoo. Daddy stayed home with little brother so he wouldn’t miss his nap and we were joined by a sweet friend and one of her sweet little guys.

Raffi was sung (bonus points if you can guess which song).

Hat hair saw the light of day.

Friends were made.

Snacks were enjoyed.

Mittens were removed.

It was wonderful.

It gets so easy for me to hibernate during these short, winter days. After the cold we’ve had it has been a sweet relief to get out and enjoy the sun without the wind burning our faces red. Although spring is still months away it is nice to be reminded that the promise of spring never fails. Days lengthen, snow melts and flowers bloom.

For now, we’ll enjoy them in the conservatory.

Hope your weekend was lovely, too!

Joining SouleMama today – see you on Monday!

{this moment} – A Friday ritual. A single photo – no words – capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember. If you’re inspired to do the same, leave a link to your ‘moment’ in the comments for all to find and see.

These curls are not going to last long.

He nodded his head when Daddy asked him if he wanted a haircut.

It’s enough to break a mother’s heart.

These curls are so sweet, so baby, so darling.

But we are dangerously close to mullet territory.

Actually, I think we have already arrived there but this momma couldn’t bear the thought of losing those curls.

We’ve been here before and it’s never been easy. Suddenly he’ll be a little less baby and a little more boy.

This one’s a heartbreaker.