On my bedside table: Columbine by Dave Cullen; The Twelve Clues of Christmas by Rhys Bowen

On my TV: Continuing with Elementary. Started Stranger Things S3. Almost finished with Lucifer S3.

Listening to: Mostly all the podcasts I usually listen to. I’ve been working my way through To Live and Die in L.A.

On the menu:

• Monday - Salsa Fresca Chicken

• Tuesday - Jalapeno Popper Bacon and Bean Soup

• Wednesday - Cajun Chicken and Sausage Alfredo Pasta

• Thursday - Grilled Cheese (haven’t decided our adult selection)

• Friday - Pork and Green Chile Stew

• Saturday - Leftovers

• Sunday - Honey Garlic Salmon

On my to do list: I knocked a ton of items off my list this week so I need to look at my big to dos later. I know that I need to finish picking up school supplies for Arthur and send out some cards.

Happening this week: I have my permanent crown dentist appointment on Monday and book club on Tuesday. Beyond that, we’re still figuring out what kid activities to add to our schedule this week. I’m thinking a zoo day, park playdate, library trip, and maybe a children’s museum visit.

What I am creating: Absolutely nothing right now… I’ve been in a creative rut right now. Not sure what to do next.

My simple pleasures: A cool breeze. dipping my toes in the pool, an engrossing cozy mystery

What I’m planning: We’re thinking about a possible weekend trip to Kansas to see a space exhibit.

Looking around the house: Oh the usual things to clean. I think we need to do a big sweep of the house and just tidy everything…

Looking forward to: We have a ton of fun activities planned for next week. I’m looking forward to the temperatures going down a bit.

From the camera: Q kept making the rat eat me. Great fun for a 2 year old.