Austin, TX

Even though I didn't see much of Austin during my business trip, I liked what I saw: cool street art, LBJ Library, Broken Social Scene, Kenny Loggins, yummy food and more.

March for Our Lives

Our family marched for safety from gun violence today in two locations - Home:

 

As I was on a business trip, I marched in Austin, TX:

 

 

 

From the squeaky-voiced teenagers at our podium to the traumatized and motivated Parkland survivors to all children to all parents to all concerned citizens, our voices are uniformly pleading for common sense gun control. May it be heard loud and clear, this is JUST THE BEGINNING.

Our Activist

Don’t let this cute smile fool you, as her shirt shows, this girl is dead serious about her activism. Jia and nearly all of her classmates walked out today to demand safety from gun violence. Willa's school did a "walk for peace" as well. We are proud of both of them and sad that we are at a point where they fear for their own safety just by going to school.

All about Parrots

Since we have been volunteering at the Parrot Sanctuary, I have learned that "parrot" refers to a species of many types of birds (ones that I did not know were considered parrots)! We are learning so much by working with these birds. Willa, at age 10, is in charge of about 30 birds and does an EXCELLENT job. She remembers which ones need special food, special oil in their food, special bedding, etc. She donated her allowance money to support one of our favorite birds there as well - Harpo. Harpo is like the Ambassador for the sanctuary as he always greets you and follows you around saying "Hello! Harpo!" We are so proud of her.

Cross-country skiing

Perfect day for it!

Valentine's Day

Old tradition that we're keeping: adopting manatees from Save the Manatee Club. This year, Jia chose Elsie and Willa picked Gator.

New tradition that we're adding: One heart for each day of February until Valentine's Day. It was a hit!

Bird Rescue

One of the great things about being a parent is that you are often brought out of your comfort zone by your children. In addition to llamas, Willa has developed a strong love for birds. As such, we will now be volunteering weekly at the Midwest Avian Rescue, a sanctuary for parrots with medical or psychological issues. Willa loves helping animals - and we love her big heart.

After she cleans cages and mops the floor, it’s snack time - everyone’s favorite.