Life Right Now #4

On my bedside table: Eruption by Steve Olson; Dark Angel by Mary Balogh

On my TV: Lots of random television shows. We’ve been watching the back catalog of Letterkenny while also diving back into Star Trek: Voyager. As for currently airing shows, we’re keeping up with The Magicians and I’m watching The Bachelor.

Listening to: Mostly podcasts such as Here to Make Friends and all the NPR shows.

On the menu:

• Monday - Pot Roast

• Tuesday - Spinach and Artichoke Melts

• Wednesday - Teriyaki Chicken

• Thursday - Pesto Stuffed Shells

• Friday - Leftovers

• Saturday - Pulled Pork Sandwiches

• Sunday - Fettuccine Alfredo

On my to do list: Lots of random things i haven’t gotten to yet. I did check off registering Arthur for summer camps (we got discounts for registering early). And I booked an AirBnB for a friend and I when we go to Minneapolis in April. This week I’m focused on some planning goals and all those small house tasks.

Happening this week: We have our usual Romp n Roll classes, And I hope to get to Lauritzen Gardens to see the dinosaurs. Otherwise, I have no other plans.

What I am creating: I’ve started working on my 30 Days of Birthday Cards for March. I’m about 1/3 of the way done. I need to switch back to Project Life to finish Quentin’s 2017 album and get started on 2018.

My simple pleasures: Been digging Reese’s hearts on clearance. Really all the clearance Valentine’s Day candy. Other than that, I’ve been fitting in more time to read in my daily schedule.

What I’m planning: Doing a bit of catchup of blog posts. And working on planning what other card designs or challenges to do for March.

Looking around the house: Having a weekly cleaning schedule has really helped me keep a baseline. This week I do need to wash all the sheets and swiffer all the tile surfaces.

Looking forward to: Visiting a new-to-us museum.

From the camera: Arthur set up a theater so he could perform a concert in front of his animals.

Life Right Now #3

On my bedside table: The Hollow of Fear by Sherry Thomas; Heart-Shaped Box by Joe Hill

On my TV: Catching up with The Magicians, Letterkenny, and The Good Place.

Listening to: I dove into the podcast Last Seen about the art heist at the Gardner Museum in Boston.

On the menu:

• Monday - Grilled Cheese

• Tuesday - Monterrey Chicken Skillet

• Wednesday - Caribbean Salmon Bowl

• Thursday - Leftovers

• Friday - Cajun Chicken and Sausage Alfredo

• Saturday - Smothered Pork Chops

• Sunday - Ranch Cheddar Chicken

On my to do list: Still need to get to the DMV. And I want to make a few appointments this coming month.

Happening this week: I have book club on Monday. We will be discussing Code Girls by Liza Mundy. We have our usual classes and activities. And I am hoping to host crop day on Saturday.

What I am creating: I finished a few cards last week and have turned to catching up Quentin’s Project Life album. I was stuck way back in February 2017. I dove back in this weekend and have caught up to August 2017.

My simple pleasures: Loving the minutes here and there that I find to read.

What I’m planning: Hopefully adding a few more craft classes to this month’s schedule.

Looking around the house: There are two random boxes in the kitchen that I want to empty and get rid of.

Looking forward to: Book club on Monday! Wine and time away from the kiddos sounds great to me.

From the camera: Painting at the Omaha Children’s Museum

Life Right Now #2

On my bedside table: In an Absent Dream by Seanan McGuire; Heart-Shaped Box by Joe Hill

On my TV: Wrapping up our movie month this week. Plus I watched a few episodes of Riverdale S2 Friday night while J was out.

Listening to: Podcasts, podcasts, and more podcasts. Slowing catching up with This Podcast Will Kill You.

On the menu:

• Monday - Pulled Pork Hawaiian Nachos

• Tuesday - Broccoli Beef

• Wednesday - Chicken Ranch Tacos

• Thursday - Spinach and Feta Grilled Cheese

• Friday - Leftovers

• Saturday - Monterrey Chicken Skillet

• Sunday - Pesto Stuffed Shells

On my to do list: Still have a few tasks to do from last week…

Happening this week: We’ve got a few Romp n Roll classes scheduled for this week. Plus a visit to the Children’s Museum. And I have book club on Tuesday night. Really looking forward to that.

What I am creating: I finished my big craft project on Thursday. Now I’m transitioning over to starting to catch up Quentin’s 2017 Project Life album. And I want to make at least three cards for February.

My simple pleasures: Being warm (seriously, I’ve been so cold lately), Apple Cinnamon Tea, comfy socks, fresh fruit

What I’m planning: Working on hotel accommodations for April’s convention.

Looking around the house: I want to sort the rest of the random stuff in the TV room. And I need to sweep and swiffer the kitchen today.

Looking forward to: Book club! We read The Wife Between Us by Greer Hendricks and Sarah Pekkanen. Not the best, but I think it should translate to a good discussion. We’re meeting at a library themed bar, so I’m excited!

From the camera: Aftermath of dinner prep the other night.

Life Right Now #1

On my bedside table: Whiskey in a Teacup by Reese Witherspoon; Code Girls by Liza Mundy

On my TV: The Good Place S3; Letterkenny S2; Riverdale S2; Lots of movies for January Movie Month

Listening to: Catching up on some podcasts, specifically Reading Glasses, Apocalist Book Club, NPR Politics, Pod Save America, What Should I Read Next

On the menu:

• Monday - Honey Garlic Salmon

• Tuesday - Leftovers

• Wednesday - BLT Grilled Cheese

• Thursday - Hawaiian Pulled Pork Nachos

• Friday - Broccoli Beef

• Saturday - Pesto Stuffed Shells

• Sunday - Kielbasa Skillet

On my to do list: Insurance and driver’s license. Those are my two big tasks for this coming week. Not looking forward to it at all.

Happening this week: Beside the usual preschool, errands, and Romp n Roll Classes, I have a couple of card classes scheduled. Let’s see if anyone actually comes.

What I am creating: Working on some card kits for a friend’s retreat in March. I’ve got my design down, just need to get cutting and putting kits together.

My simple pleasures: When the kids are not crying. Seriously, it’s been a rough couple of days around here. I would really love some peace and quiet for a few minutes.

What I’m planning: Looking at March’s activities and travels. I should get started on that. Also, a friend and I need to look into hotels for April’s Stampin’ Up! conference.

Looking around the house: Argh! We’ve had multiple light bulbs go in the past week. Still need to replace the ones in the TV room. The installed lighting in this house isn’t great.

Looking forward to: Finishing my current read (The Fifth Season); so very good!

From the camera: Apparently we needed ice cream on this ridiculously cold day.

Life Right Now #40

As I look outside my window: Another gray day in Indiana. It’s December, so of course it’s gray.

Right now I am: Lounging at my mom’s house. We’re all going to see a movie later (Ralph Breaks the Internet), but until then, we’re relaxing.

On my bedside table: Coffee Talk; The Devil in the White City; The Clockmaker’s Daughter

On my tv this week: Not much of anything. I did finish S1 of Riverdale.

Listening to: Podcasts mostly. On the drive from Nebraska, I listened to some Presidential. I also ran through a few holiday albums.

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Christmas Eve dinner (ham, potatoes, etc)

• Tuesday - Christmas Day dinner (lasagna)

• Wednesday - Dinner with my dad, stepmom, sister, nephew (pizza)

• Thursday - Tacos

• Friday - Out somewhere

• Saturday - Traveling

• Sunday - No idea (we’ll be home, but I have no plans yet)

On my to do list: Just enjoy the season. Really I don’t have many tasks other than have Christmas fun.

Happening this week:

• Monday - Christmas Eve with the family

• Tuesday - Christmas Day with the family

• Wednesday - Christmas with my dad

• Thursday - Shopping with the twins

• Friday - Morning playdate with friends; afternoon get together with other friends

• Saturday - Travel day home

• Sunday - Penguins and Pancakes at the zoo

What I am creating: Working on my December Daily album and holiday albums. Not going to get these down this week (December’s not over!), but I do want to make some headway while in Indiana.

My simple pleasures: Peppermint anything; twinkly lights; popcorn and hot chocolate at the drive-thru lights; quiet moments

From the camera: We always have to go to the Fantasy of Lights. I love the gingerbread house!

Life Right Now #39

As I look outside my window: The sun is shining and the snow is melting. Now our streets and yards look gross instead of a pretty winter wonderland.

Right now I am: Trying not to cough over breakfast. This sickness is just sticking around… Hoping it’s gone before we travel on Wednesday.

On my bedside table: A Poisoned Season by Tasha Alexander; That Mistletoe Moment; The Night Before Christmas; The Firemaster’s Mistress by Christie Dickason

On my tv this week: We finished this season of Doctor Who; sad it was a short season. I’ve almost finished S1 of Riverdale. Seriously I love it so much! Hoping to knock out that last few episodes before we leave on Wednesday. J and I started watching The Patriot Act with Hasan Minhaj. One big topic each show. Really digging it, but I have to say the Amazon episode depressed me.

Listening to: Catching up on my current podcasts (NPR Politics, Pod Save America, What Should I Read Next, Reading Glasses), starting a new one (This Podcast Will Kill You), and downloading a favorite to relisten on our drive to Indiana (Presidential).

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Apple Bacon Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

• T uesday - Chicken Parmesan

• Wednesday -Sunday - We will be in Indiana for Christmas. Not sure of dinner plans yet.

On my to do list: Packing!!! We leave on Wednesday after school. I need to get everything sorted and packed. Plus I have a few travel tasks to complete before we leave: wrap presents, make cookies, clean out the van, stop at Trader Joe’s for specials, and drop off the library books.

Happening this week:

• Monday - Arthur school; Quentin Romp n Roll Class

• Tuesday - Arthur and Quentin Romp n Roll Classes

• Wednesday - Arthur school; we leave for Indiana

• Thursday - Still traveling; Putnam Museum in Davenport IA

• Friday - Possible Science Central Visit

• Saturday - Get twins; Fantasy of Lights drive thru

• Sunday - Chill day

What I am creating: I finished all of the Christmas cards last week, so now I’m on to prepping the Holiday Albums and my December Daily. I was going to put my DD in the big family Project Life album, but at the minute I switched it up to a separate 6” x 8” album. So now I’m back to rearranging my supply box.

My simple pleasures: Being able to breath for five minutes without coughing.

Looking around the house: Our basement has drywall again, but no flooring yet. Beyond the basement, I need to do a cleaning sweep of the house before we leave.

From the camera: Cookie decorating at Romp n Roll on Friday night. It was fun until Q had enough and lost it.

Life Right Now #38

On my bedside table: Looking for Alaska by John Green; various Christmas themed romances

On my tv this week: A bit of Stan Against Evil, Riverdale S1, and lots of dinosaurs!

Listening to: I started a new-to-me podcast about infectious diseases called This Podcast Will Kill You and a new podcast about apocalypse books called The Apocalist. Loving both of them!

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Chicken Corden Blue Dip

• Tuesday - Cheesy Potatoes and Bacon Hash

• Wednesday - Avocado Bruschetta Chicken

• Thursday - Leftovers

• Friday - Apple Cheddar Stuffed Chicken

• Saturday - Beef Tips

• Sunday - Chicken Parmesan

On my to do list: Finish Christmas shopping (just a bit left), get the rest of the Christmas cards sent out, book a hotel for our travels, finish a few craft projects, take more December Daily pictures, and other things I’m forgetting…

Happening this week:

• Monday - Arthur school

• Tuesday - Romp n Roll classes; Girly Book Club Omaha

• Wednesday - Arthur school; Grocery shopping

• Thursday - Visit to Morrill Hall in Lincoln (dinosaurs!!)

• Friday - Arthur school; Jolly Jam at Romp n Roll

• Saturday - Arthur Romp n Roll Pirates Class

• Sunday - Nothing so far

What I am creating: I finished my Christmas cards this past weekend and have started on my December Daily pages. I want to finish out the Family Project Life album before I leave for Indiana on the 21st. I’m currently at Week 41, so I’m shooting for another 8 weeks completed before Christmas. I think I can get this done! I also want to make a few cards using my preorder goodies.

My simple pleasures: Not being super sick (middle of the week sucked), chocolate chip cookies, a bit of crafting time on Saturday, working internet again.

Looking around the house: After the basement flooded again last weekend, we had to haul up everything. Most of it is sitting in piles around the living room. I hope to get that more organized this week.

From the camera: We took a snowy trip to the zoo this past week. At least the jungle building is warm.

Life Right Now #37

As I look outside my window: It’s a wintery wonderland out there. Not too much snow, but enough to cover the ground and make mostly everything white. The wind might get to me though…

Right now I am: Waiting on J to get up so I can go to the gym. I’m feeling blobby today.

On my bedside table: Death by Diamonds and Skirting the Grave by Annette Blair; Hocus Pocus and the All-New Sequel by A.W. Jantha

On my tv this week: Slowly catching up with Full Frontal (we’re still in September). I finally got to watch the finale of Bake-Off which was slightly disappointing. Plus, J and I watched a few movies this week.

Listening to: Nothing much at all. It was a slow week.

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Chili and Cornbread

• Tuesday - Leftovers

• Wednesday - Sweet Potato Nachos

• Thursday - Irish Whiskey Stew

• Friday - Green Chili Enchilada Soup

• Saturday - Leftovers

• Sunday - Sesame Chicken

On my to do list: Oh so many random little things. But the biggest thing is attempting to reroute some packages from being delivered to our old California address. Ugh! There’s always something that comes up. And I’m definitely not willing to give up that entire order (packaged in four boxes with two different delivery companies to make matters even more complicated).

Happening this week: Another full week of preschool for Arthur. Thank goodness! He loves it and his attitude at home is so much better with some time away.

• Monday - Yoga (if Q cooperates); Open Gym at Romp n Roll

• Tuesday - RnR Classes; Book Club

• Wednesday - Gym (hopefully)

• Thursday - Zoo or Children’s Museum

• Friday - Errand Day

• Saturday - RnR for Quentin

• Sunday - Birthday party for Arthur

What I am creating: I’m almost done with my Christmas cards. Need to get back to finishing the Project Life album.

My simple pleasures: Cranberry sauce and twice baked sweet potatoes. Yum!

Looking around the house: Yeah, not much was finished this past week. We really need to get this stuff hung on the walls to clear up the space.

From the camera: Three boys and a dog

Life Right Now #36

As I look outside my window: There’s a thin layer of snow on the ground. It snowed most of the day yesterday, but light flurries.

Right now I am: Prepping breakfast for two hungry boys.

On my bedside table: On a Cold Dark Sea by Elizabeth Blackwell; My Name is Markham by Jodi Taylor

On my tv this week: Lots of Stan Against Evil S3 and The Good Place S3

Listening to: Podcasts, podcasts, and more podcasts

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Leftovers

• Tuesday - Fiesta Chicken

• Wednesday - Tuscan Kale and White Bean Soup

• Thursday - It’s Thanksgiving!!!

• Friday - Leftovers

• Saturday - Ham and Cheese Pretzel Sandwiches

• Sunday - Chili and Cornbread

On my to do list: Lots and lots of things I’m sure, but I really need to double check my big list.

Happening this week:

• Monday - Arthur preschool; Quentin gym class; Grocery shopping

• Tuesday - Zumba; Grocery shopping; Christmas card class

• Wednesday - Arthur preschool; Thanksgiving prep

• Thursday - Thanksgiving!!!

• Friday - Nothing probably

• Saturday - Coffee and conversation; Arthur pirates class

• Sunday - Nothing

What I am creating: Plugging along on the Christmas cards. I’m probably 40% done. The move really put me behind, but I like to get them all done and sent by the second week of December. I’m also trying to catch up on the family PL album. I need to work on my November Memory Planner pages. And I want to prep December Daily. Lots of crafty goals for this week.

My simple pleasures: Gingerbread lattes from Starbucks (just the right amount of sweet), reading in bed, not having to fill my gas tank every week, planner sticker orders

Looking around the house: We still have a house project list a mile long. Hoping to knock a few things out this week, especially the garage so I can park the cars.

From the camera: Surprise gift from an internet friend.

Life Right Now #35

As I look outside my window: The sun is shining into my dining room, but don’t be fooled, it’s only 29 degrees out there right now…

Right now I am: Finishing breakfast, then planning on a shower before the delivery people come with our new stove. The control board on our current one is shorting out and I can’t use the oven at all. I didn’t realize how much I use our oven until I couldn’t. No baking at all this week!

On my bedside table: The Royal We by Heather Cocks and Jessica Morgan; Monstress Vol. 3

On my tv this week: Lots of The Good Place, Stan Against Evil, It’s Always Sunny, and GBBO.

Listening to: Catching up on some podcasts and lots of Nothing More

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Black Bean Soup

• Tuesday - BBQ Chicken

• Wednesday - Leftovers

• Thursday - Italian Noodle Soup

• Friday - Balsamic Pork Roast

• Saturday - Fiesta Chicken and Rice Bowls

• Sunday - ???

On my to do list: I still need to get to the DMV soon to get a NE license. I’m planning on getting the boys’ haircuts tomorrow. And the big task is navigating Aetna’s website to find new doctors, dentists, and eye doctors for the family. Not looking forward to that task.

Happening this week:

• Monday - Yoga; Open Gym

• Tuesday - Classes at Romp n Roll

• Wednesday - Gym; Christmas Card Class

• Thursday - Classes at Romp n Roll

• Friday - Stroytime at the Library

• Saturday - Christmas card Class

• Sunday - Nothing

What I am creating: Christmas cards!!! I have about half of them done, but now I want to switch up the designs a bit. I’ve got a few ideas pinned that I can take elements from.

My simple pleasures: Watching the snow come down (not so much going out in it), theater date with Arthur, magazines in my mailbox, having a great library system again.

Looking around the house: Things are coming together. The theater is mostly put together, but I do need to figure out what to do about the weird area by the fireplace. The master is mostly put away. I need to finish my craft area and move boxes around in the garage so I can park in there.

From the camera: The scene outside on Friday…

Life Right Now #34

As I look outside my window: It’s a bit gray and overcast. No rain today, but looks like the forecast is calling for rain tomorrow.

Right now I am: Cleaning up the dining room/kitchen, updating my planner, and generally checking in before I go take a shower.

On my bedside table: Lies, Damned Lies, and History by Jodi Taylor; A Magical Match by Juliet Blackwell

On my tv this week: I finally finished UnReal S4. Totally called that ending. J and I watched Jack Whitehall Travels with My Father S2.

Listening to: Not much at all. Transcription projects? That’s about it.

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Leftovers

• Tuesday - Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken

• Wednesday - Kielbasa Skillet

• Thursday - Sweet Potato Nachos

• Friday - Chicken and Noodles

• Saturday - Leftovers

• Sunday - Italian Noodle Soup

On my to do list: Find a doctor as we’ve now got our insurance cards. Also a dentist and an eye doctor. Figure out the washer situation (not draining properly). Get a NE driver’s license. Get started on my gym routine.

Happening this week:

• Monday - Arthur’s first day of preschool! Q has a music class; library visit; Christmas card class

• Tuesday - Zumba class; grocery shopping

• Wednesday - Personal trainer visit at the gym

• Thursday - Arthur’s art class; Drinks and conversation with a women’s group

• Friday - Arthur preschool; Storytime at HyVee; Polar Express showing at the library

• Saturday - Coffee and conversation; theatre performance

• Sunday - Family crafts at the library

What I am creating: Finishing up some SSINK cards, then I’m moving on to Christmas cards!

My simple pleasures: Nothing much this week at all. It’s been a really long week. I’m ready for Monday and the start of some sort of schedule.

Looking around the house: Nothing has been done at all this past week. Really hoping to get the master bedroom sorted today asI would really like to put away my clothes.

From the camera: Q loved this blowup Marshal at the neighbor’s house. I seriously had to pull him away from it.

Life Right Now #33

As I look outside my window: My yard is full of golden yellow leaves and I’m really going to miss them when the lawn guy comes next week.

Right now I am: Actually writing this on Saturday afternoon. We are planning on attending the zoo’s Trick-or-Treating event tonight and I’m unsure of when we will be getting home.

On my bedside table: Bellman and Black by Diane Setterfield; Spinning Straw into Gold by Joan Gould

On my tv this week: Playing catchup on currently airing shows. I also almost finished S4 of UnReal. One more episode to go!

Listening to: Catching up on a few podcasts. I listened to Lore, Aaron Mahnke’s Cabinet of Curiosities, NPR Politics, Pod Save America, and What Should I Read Next.

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Ranch Cheddar Chicken

• Tuesday - Ham and Potato Soup

• Wednesday - Leftovers

• Thursday - Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken

• Friday - Spaghetti

• Saturday - Chicken Tortilla Soup

• Sunday - Spicy Thai Noodles

On my to do list: I already signed up Q for the kid gym place. Now I need to get Arthur signed up for preschool and the family signed up for a the local gym. I’m weirdly excited about the gym and am currently planning what classes I want to try and attend. Other than that, I am going to try to get to the DMV for my Nebraska license and then the library for a library card! And I almost forgot that I need to buy Elf the Musical tickets for December.

Happening this week:

• Monday - Playdate at our house

• Tuesday - Children’s Museum Trick or Treating

• Wednesday - It’s Halloween!!!!

• Thursday - Art and gym classes at Romp n Roll

• Friday - ??? Probably errands

• Saturday - Playdate at our house

• Sunday - Open crafting at our house

What I am creating: I currently working on my October Memory Planner pages. I hope to get around to some card making this week.

My simple pleasures: Falling leaves, PSL, time at the theatre, good cake

Looking around the house: Things are finally coming together around here. The master bedroom is still horribly messy, but the office/craft room looks decent.

From the camera: At the theatre!

Life Right Now #32

As I look outside my window: Sunny but chilly morning

Right now I am: Prepping to go to the pumpkin patch today. Or really the pumpkin amusement park, the thing is seriously huge!

On my bedside table: Into the Drowning Deep by Mira Grant; Dracula by Bram Stoker

On my tv this week: Lots of catching up on some shows including The Good Place, Doctor Who, and It’s Always Sunny

Listening to: Aaron Mahnke’s Cabinet of Curiosity. Love these little Lore-esque stories.

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Prosciutto and Fig Pizza (Pepperoni for the kiddos)

• Tuesday - Sausage and Apple Stuffed Acorn Squash

• Wednesday - Leftovers

• Thursday - Honey Garlic Salmon

• Friday - Ranch Cheddar Chicken

• Saturday - ???

• Sunday - ???

On my to do list: I hope to finish organizing my craft area and putting away all of our clothes. Otherwise, I have the usual list of house chores to do this week. We also want to inquire about getting library cards this week.

Happening this week:

• Monday - I signed Quentin up for a free trial toddler music class. Hope it’s fun. Arthur’s going to stay home with J.

• Tuesday - Nothing so far; maybe library

• Wednesday - Intro to the local MOMs group playdate

• Thursday - Another MOMs group playdate; Initial book club meeting I’m organizing

• Friday - Probably grocery

• Saturday - The Little Engine that Could at The Rose Theatre

• Sunday - Dracula Book Club

What I am creating: I finally pulled out some supplies and made a few cards yesterday. I knocked out two design team cards and a stack of half-finished cards.

My simple pleasures: Falling leaves, a variety of good restaurants, all the pumpkins and pumpkin flavored things,

Looking around the house: Things are slowly coming together in the house. Soon we might be sufficiently moved in.

From the camera: Q “reading” his dinosaur book. Dinosaurs are his favorite things hands-down.

Life Right Now #31

As I look outside my window: It’s a gloomy day here in Indiana. It’s supposed to rain on and off most of the day.

Right now I am: Lounging, trying to decide what we are going to do today. Maybe a movie?

On my bedside table: A Royal Flush by Rhys Bowen; Florida by Lauren Groff

On my tv this week: Nothing really. Other than some cartoons, I haven’t really watched any TV this past week.

Listening to: My usual mix of podcasts.

On the menu for this week: No idea as we’re still in Indiana.

On my to do list: Nothing much until we finally get to Omaha.

Happening this week: I have no idea… We’re still waiting for the moving truck to arrive in Omaha so then we can get into our new house. From there, I will obviously be spending some time unpacking. We do have children’s theater tickets for Sunday and really hope to be able to make it.

What I am creating: Working on my September Memory Planner pages.

My simple pleasures: Iced tea, brownies, homemade chili, snuggles with Q

Looking around the house: It’s not my house so… I guess we just need to pick up the toys.

From the camera: Lunch date at Steak n Shake.

Life Right Now #30

As I look outside my window: It’s dark as another day closes…

Right now I am: Relaxing for a bit before heading off to read and then bed. it’s been a long day.

On my bedside table: The Eyre Affair by Jasper Fforde, Jane Steele by Lyndsay Faye

On my tv this week: J and I caught up on It’s Always Sunny and Elementary. We also also finished The Day the World Changed (documentary from the 1980s). We have one more episode!

Listening to: Lots of Nothing More and Black Veil Brides in the car. And catching up on some podcasts at home (NPR Politics, Pod Save America, What Should I Read Next, The Wilderness, Reading Glass, Snark Squad).

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - ??? Food is being brought for us later today.

• Tuesday - Probably fast food as it’s plane day!

• Wednesday - Sunday - Whatever my mom and I decide as I will be at her house.

On my to do list: Finish packing for a Tuesday moving day! Obviously this is a big one. After Tuesday, I want to start laying out our plan for October.

Happening this week:

• Monday - Final full day in California. Finishing packing and lots of cleaning.

• Tuesday - Travel day!

• Wednesday - Quentin’s 2nd birthday! We’re going to hit up the Fort Wayne Zoo.

• Thursday -Sunday - No idea yet…

What I am creating: I finished up a few cards before everything got packed. I’m taking my Memory Planner to Indiana and hope to finish September while I’m there.

Looking around the house: It’s very bare around here…

From the camera: Last play day with friends.

Life Right Now #29

On my bedside table: Her Royal Spyness by Rhys Bowen; I'd Rather Be Reading by Anne Bogel; The Dinner List by Rebecca Serle

On my tv this week: J and I are almost finished with S2 of Legion. Oh my! It is trippy... we so can't wait to see what happens with the season finale. We also watched more of S6 of Supernatural, lots of back QI episodes, and Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom.

Listening to: Mostly podcasts this week including all the NPR Politics episodes about the Kavanaugh hearings, a few episodes of Reading Glasses and Lore, and one of The Wilderness. I need to make sure to download some for my retreat next week. 

On the menu for this week: Last week's meal plan went out the window because of party leftovers and then our last Munchery box.

• Monday - Potato Bacon Casserole
• Tuesday - Teriyaki Chicken, Rice, Crab Rangoon
• Wednesday - Pork and Green Chili Stew
• Thursday - I'm away at retreat
• Friday - Retreat
• Saturday - Retreat
• Sunday - ??? I need to figure this out before I leave for the retreat.

On my to do list: We have a few activities and then I'm off to the retreat for the weekend. My list is short this week. 

Happening this week:

• Monday - Home day, more packing probably
• Tuesday - Oakland Zoo
• Wednesday - Half Moon Bay Beach Day
• Thursday -Sunday - Retreat!!!!

What I am creating: As my Fall Bingo event had to be rescheduled for Sept. 22nd, I have some more time to create more make n take examples. I also hope to get a few more October SSINK cards finished before we move. And I'm going to take my August Memory Planner supplies to the retreat. 

My simple pleasures: Water (trying to drink more), gummy worms, on time deliveries, library magazines

Looking around the house: We're in a holding pattern now packing-wise. I just can't pack certain things because we use them almost every day. So, the house is pretty bare but there's definitely more to pack before we leave. 

From the camera: Park play time

Life Right Now #28

Right now I am: Relaxing after a crazy birthday party day... 

On my bedside table: The Dinner List by Rebecca Serle; Rat Queens Vol 4; Their Eyes were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston

On my tv this week: J and finished S5 of Supernatural and started S6. We also watched a fair amount of old QI episodes. And I catch up with Bachelor in Paradise. 

Listening to: I finally started listening to The Wilderness and it is both depressing and uplifting. 

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Potato Bacon Casserole
• Tuesday - Tex Mex Chicken
• Wednesday - Pork and Green Chile Stew
• Thursday - Munchery
• Friday - Munchery
• Saturday - Munchery
• Sunday - Teriyaki Chicken

On my to do list: Obviously more moving tasks. I also need to take the van into the dealership for an oil change and tire rotation. And the big task is to prep for bingo. 

Happening this week:

• Monday - Nothing
• Tuesday - Ruth Bancroft Garden and Heather Farm Park
• Wednesday - Le Petite Playhouse
• Thursday - Errand day; Van oil change; Card Class
• Friday - Children's Creativity Museum in SF
• Saturday - Stampin' Up! Bingo
• Sunday - Friend's birthday party

What I am creating: I made a ton of decorations for the birthday party. Now I need to focus on Bingo make n take and example cards. 

My simple pleasures: Guacamole, library magazines, new patterned paper, planner stickers

Looking around the house: This place looked grim after the party yesterday, but we cleaned it up pretty quickly. On the moving front, I took a pause to prep for the party but am back at packing today. My focus is a few kitchen boxes today. Later this week, I need to do another craft box. 

From the camera: My three scientists at the birthday party yesterday.

Life Right Now #27

On my bedside table: Emily and the Dark Angel by Jo Beverley; Talking as Fast as I Can by Lauren Graham

On my tv this week: Still working through Legion S2 and Supernatural S5.

Listening to: I caught up with a few other podcasts so I got to start The Wilderness!

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Buffalo Chicken Sliders
• Tuesday - Hawaiian Pulled Pork Nachos 
• Wednesday - Brinner! Waffles, Eggs, and Bacon
• Thursday - Leftovers
• Friday - Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
• Saturday  - Sweet Potato and Black Bean Quinoa Bowls
• Sunday - Sloppy Joes

On my to do list: So much packing...

Happening this week:

• Monday - Home Day (cleaning and packing)
• Tuesday - Oakland Zoo
• Wednesday - Errands; $1 Card Kit Class
• Thursday - Half Moon Beach Day (our last beach day in California)
• Friday - Home Day
• Saturday - Stamp Club
• Sunday - Oakland Zoo with the OBMs

What I am creating: I need to finish the stamp club projects for next Saturday.

My simple pleasures: Splash pads, to do list sheets, new planners, good deals

Looking around the house: The play room is a total disaster. Guess I know what we are doing tomorrow...

From the camera: Q selfie!

Life Right Now #26

As I look outside my window: Another sunny day in California. I know I'm going to miss the sunshine when it's the dead of winter, but I am looking forward to experiencing fall in the Midwest again.

Right now I am: Taking a break from packing a bit. We are getting it done and am coming close to things that can't be packed until a week before we leave. 

On my bedside table: The Stolen Bride by Jo  Beverley; Talking as Fast as I Can by Lauren Graham

On my tv this week: J and I have been watching a decent amount of Supernatural S5. We also went back and continued with Legion S2. While he was away one night, I started UnReal S4. Decent TV week.

Listening to: Lots of podcasts. I dove into this last season of Annotated, current eps of What Should I Read Next, Reading Glasses, and all the politics podcasts. 

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Garlic Shrimp Pasta
• Tuesday - Italian Beef Sandwiches 
• Wednesday - Garlic Chicken Pasta
• Thursday - Tater Tot Casserole
• Friday - Leftovers
• Saturday - Bacon, Cheese, Peach Paninis
• Sunday - Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Rice

On my to do list: I've got a huge pre-moving list to work through. A few things I've checked off, but I keep remembering other things to add to the list. So... a ton of little and not so little things.

Happening this week:

• Monday - Home day
• Tuesday - Bay Area Discovery Museum
• Wednesday - Library / Mel's Play Place
• Thursday - Home day
• Friday - Gilroy Gardens
• Saturday - Kid Birthday Party
• Sunday - Home day

What I am creating: Attempting to catch up the family PL album. I want to basically caught up. before I have to put it into a box for the move. I also have been making a few cards here and there for the design team.

My simple pleasures: Pitchers of iced tea, brownies, 5 minutes of silence, a good book

Looking around the house: Things are becoming very bare around here. Lots and lots of cabinets and closets are completely empty. Of course that means that there is a ton of random stuff laying around as we try to destash and pack.

From the camera: Cars at Happy Hollow

Life Right Now #25

As I look outside my window: It's very overcast at our house this morning. I'm sure it will burn off in a few hours. 

Right now I am: Catching up on my NPR Politics podcast while eating breakfast and finishing this post. 

On my bedside table: Picnic at Hanging Rock by Joan Lindsay; Out of Africa by Isak Denison 

On my tv this week: J and I caught up with Full Frontal and we finished Bounty Hunters. Other than those two shows, we've not been watching much. 

Listening to: Lots of Alt Nation and Nothing More's newest album.

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Smothered Pork Chops
• Tuesday - BBQ Chicken
• Wednesday - Texas Cheese Fries
• Thursday - Leftovers
• Friday - Garlic Chicken Pasta
• Saturday - Honey Garlic Salmon
• Sunday - Fancy BLT Grilled Cheese

On my to do list: So many things... I need to update my individual lists. But first, the twins are leaving on Thursday and we have some last minute errands to do. 

Happening this week:

• Monday - Errands, possible activity
• Tuesday - Home day
• Wednesday - Park Playdate and Arcade
• Thursday - Twins are leaving
• Friday - Errands
• Saturday - Home day
• Sunday - Book Club

What I am creating: I finished my stamp club projects in time for Saturday's club. This week I want to get to some Project Life spreads. 

My simple pleasures: Wacky Cake, pool days, not being interrupted when reading, great crafting deals

Looking around the house: Things are a bit chaotic in the house right now. But I have a plan this week to clean things up.

From the camera: A little self-care this week