As I look outside my window: It’s gray, but fairly warm today.

Right now I am: Finishing How the Word is Passed by Clint Smith before starting brunch.

On my bedside table: An Extraordinary Union by Alyssa Cole; Fuzz by Mary Roach

On my tv this week: It’s February Movie Month! We try to watch new-to-us (or at least haven’t seen in decades) movies instead of flipping over to television shows. So far, we watched some really good ones and J introduced me to The Godfather.

Listening to: Catching up on some podcasts. I also listened to both countdowns this week from Octane and Alt Nation. Trying to incorporate more music into my routine.

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Firecracker Chicken

• Tuesday - Pork and Green Chile Stew

• Wednesday - Leftovers

• Thursday - Mosterdsoep (Dutch mustard soup)

• Friday - Sega Wat

• Saturday - Ranch Cheddar Chicken

• Sunday - Sloppy Joes

On my to do list: Can't remember what’s on my list right this second, but I did make a list on Friday. I know that I’ve checked off a few things already, but I’m sure there’s lots to do. I do know that I want to finish my current nonfiction read today or tomorrow (it’s due in 4 days) and a need to put away all the clothes. I also need to do a library run and a grocery store run today.

Happening this week:

• Monday - Normal School Day

• Tuesday - Fontenelle Forest Walk (it’s going to be 50 degrees)

• Wednesday - Normal School Day

• Thursday - Coop at our house

• Friday - Great Plains Black History Museum field trip

• Saturday - Home Day

• Sunday - Jane Austen Bowl at Edge of the Universe

What I am creating: I’m working on my 2021 December Daily album. I have about Falk of the pictures printed (need more photo paper) and most of the layout set. I need to start journaling and embellishing. And finish printing when my delivery arrives on Tuesday.

My simple pleasures: Not hurting, seriously my body has been in a lot of pain these past few days. I can hardly remember a time that it didn’t hurt, even though I know that was like Thursday. Hoping this flare up subsides soon.

Looking around the house: I really need to do a cleaning day. We’re hosting coop this week, so I need to get the first floor in decent shape at least.

From the camera: I actually finished my 2021 Memory Planner! I’m ready to start my 2022 album.