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

Life Right Now #24

Right now I am:  Relaxing a bit before we head out to brunch and then for a walk amongst the redwoods. 

On my bedside table: Down Among the Sticks and Bones by Seanan McGuire; Beneath a Sugar Sky by Seanan McGuire; Picnic at Hanging Rock by Joan Lindsay

On my tv this week: J and I finished Jack Whitehall Travels with my Father and started Bounty Hunter. Guess we are on a Jack Whitehall this lately.

Listening to: Nothing in particular. I'm behind on my podcasts from this past week. 

On the menu for this week: I think I need to do a bit of meal planning today...

• Monday - Hot dogs and brats on the grill
• Tuesday - Ravioli
• Wednesday - Kielbasa skillet
• Thursday - ???
• Friday - ???
• Saturday - ???
• Sunday - ???

On my to do list: Oh my! My to do list has gotten a bit lost this week. I think I need to do a brain purge and get my list in order for the coming weeks. 

Happening this week:

• Monday - Home day; chore catch-up
• Tuesday - Possible $1 movie 
• Wednesday - Seven Seas Park and Golfland Arcade
• Thursday - Pool party 
• Friday - Home day
• Saturday - Stamp Club
• Sunday - ???

What I am creating: Nothing. We've been so busy this week. I do have some projects lined up for next week. 

My simple pleasures: Cold fruit flavored seltzer, a beautifully written book, sitting outside enjoying the breeze reading a book, baby hugs

Looking around the house: Housework was neglected this week while family was in town. I need to do some serious purging this coming month. The clutter is starting to take over. 

From the camera: Someone loves gummy bears!

Life Right Now #23

Right now I am: Eating breakfast (lemon poppy seed muffin and coffee) and getting ready to leave for a trip to Arthur's favorite brunch place (Black Bear Diner) and a visit to the Pacific Pinball Museum.

On my bedside table: Chimera by Mira Grant

On my tv this week: J and I didn't watch too much tv this week. I did catch the latest episode of The Bachelorette. We finished Ken Burn's The Roosevelts. For movie night, we picked Rampage. Way more entertaining than it should have been.

Listening to: Mostly podcasts. I caught up on What Should I Read Next and listened to more back episodes of Lore.

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Out at The Fish Market
• Tuesday - Tacos and Black Bean Soup
• Wednesday - Out probably
• Thursday - Avocado Bruschetta Chicken
• Friday - Sausage, Potato, and Spinach Soup
• Saturday - Hot Dogs and Brats on the Grill
• Sunday - Caribbean Salmon Quinoa Bowls

On my to do list: Not much due to family being in town. We're just focused on having a good week.

Happening this week:

• Monday - Stinson Beach Visit
• Tuesday - Oakland Zoo
• Wednesday - San Francisco Day (probably the Wharf and North Beach)
• Thursday - San Francisco Day (Asian Art Museum and the Mission)
• Friday - Jelly Belly Factory
• Saturday - Gundlach Bunschu Winery Tour (not me, but the other adults); Sonoma Traintown
• Sunday - Purisima Creek Redwoods

What I am creating: Not much, but I might slip in some crafting time here and there this week.

My simple pleasures: Q snuggles, lemon poppy seed muffins (my fave!), good weather

From the camera: Feeding the goats at Tilden

Life Right Now #22

As I look outside my window: It's sunny and warm but thankfully not as hot as yesterday's high of 98 degrees. We can turn the air conditioning off tonight and for the rest of the week. Having the windows closed makes me a bit cranky...

Right now I am: Lounging on the couch after getting back from book club this morning. I'm nursing a sun hang-over from yesterday's festivities. 

On my bedside table: Keeper of the Castle by Juliet Blackwell; Wayward Vol. 1-5

On my tv this week: Not a ton. J and watched some Elementary and Supernatural and finally started Electric Dreams. The first episode "The Hood Maker" was really good. 

Listening to: On a hard rock kick from my time at the Warped Tour yesterday. I've been repeating Motionless in White (such a great show!), Black Veil Brides (my favorite!), Asking Alexandria, and Nothing More. 

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken
• Tuesday - Spaghetti
• Wednesday - Sesame Chicken
• Thursday - Leftovers
• Friday - Pulled Pork Sandwiches
• Saturday - Ranch Cheddar Chicken
• Sunday - Tilapia?

On my to do list: Need to finalize some of our July plans. The bathrooms need cleaned this week. I would like to finish the stack of comics I have on the stairs. And hopefully I can take care of a few appointments...

Happening this week: It's a super weird week where the only things we have planned are a park playdate and arcade visit on Wednesday and a friend's birthday party on Sunday. The rest of the week is wide open right now. Maybe a movie? Definitely a pool visit sometime in there.What I am creating:

My simple pleasures: I worked on Arthur's Project Life 2017 album a little bit. I have all the pictures in, but need to finish out the journaling and the embellishments. Hoping I can finish that this coming week and get moving on the 2018 album. Plus I have the pictures from May for the family album. Wanting to get that knocked out this coming week. 

Looking around the house: J and Arthur cleaned the playroom yesterday when I was gone (yeah!) so the downstairs is in good shape. I know I need to put away laundry and clean the bathrooms. I'm also thinking about a pantry cleanout. 

From the camera: Black Veil Brides at the Warped Tour!!!! Such an amazing show!

Life Right Now #21

On my bedside table: March Vol. 2 and 3 by John Lewis; Parasite by Mira Grant

On my tv this week: We introduced the twins to Forbidden Planet. J and I caught up on Archer and Elementary.

Listening to: Not much really. A few podcasts here and there. 

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Leftovers
• Tuesday - Sloppy Joes
• Wednesday - Chicken Tortilla Soup
• Thursday - Peach and Prosciutto Pizzas; Pepperoni Pizzas for the kids
• Friday - Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken
• Saturday - Leftovers
• Sunday - Appetizer Night

On my to do list: I need to finish planning out the rest of the summer and especially the second week in July. I also need to plan this summer's craft classes, clean out the pantry, make a doctor's appointment, pick up my pictures, and meal plan. 

Happening this week:

• Monday - Half Moon Bay Beach Day
• Tuesday - $1 Ninjago Movie 
• Wednesday - Seven Seas Park and Golfland Arcade
• Thursday - Dublin Heritage Park, Library, and Errands
• Friday - Home Day
• Saturday - Vans Warped Tour
• Sunday - Pirate Festival in Vallejo

What I am creating: Nothing at the moment. I do want to finish another couple of months of Arthur's Project Life album and get the 2018 one up to date. 

My simple pleasures: A calmer week... 

Looking around the house: I need to do some basic chores this week and catch up on laundry.

From the camera: Hello fancy hair!

Life Right Now #20

On my bedside table: The Elite and The One by Kiera Cass -- must finish this fluffy YA series.

On my tv this week: I finally got to watch the first episode of this season's The Bachelorette. I'm so here for Becca!

Listening to: Lots of podcasts - Lore, NPR Politics, Pod Save America, What Should I Read Next

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Smothered Pork Chops
• Tuesday - Leftovers
• Wednesday - Monterey Chicken
• Thursday - Tilapia
• Friday - Smoked Sausage and Potatoes
• Saturday - Appetizer Night
• Sunday - Fiesta Chicken

On my to do list: I need to renew our Costco membership, check in with the in-laws about their visit, take care of my appointments, and do a list of household chores.

Happening this week:

• Monday - Home Day?
• Tuesday - Oakland Zoo
• Wednesday - Errands, Grocery
• Thursday - Doctor Appointment (for me); Pool Party
• Friday - Point Pinole Beach
• Saturday - I'm finally getting my hair dyed!!!!
• Sunday - Pirate Festival in Vallejo

What I am creating: Last week I finished cards for Stamp Club, May's Memory Planner pages, and three months of Project Life for Arthur's album. I'm hoping to knock out another three months of PL spreads this coming week, start planning June's MP pages, and make a few more cards for the blog.

My simple pleasures: Brownies, snuggles, curling up on the couch with a good book

Looking around the house: Things were in good shape, but after staying in all weekend the boys have destroyed the playroom.

From the camera: Someone grabbed my computer, opened it, and started typing...