Life Right Now #26

Right now I am: Prepping to leave for a morning of crafting with a friend and some other crafty people. Looking forward to a pastry, some coffee, and crafting time without the toddler.

On my bedside table: Thomas Jefferson and the Tripoli Pirates by Brian Kilmeade; Manners and Mutiny by Gail Carriger

On my tv this week: J and I finally got to watch Childhood's End and I must say it was not good... We also watched Braindead, Another Period, Last Week Tonight, and Lisztomania (crazy crazy movie).

Listening to: Arthur requested the Gorillaz Pandora channel the other day. Good taste little man!

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Black Bean Soup
• Tuesday - Leftovers
• Wednesday - Skinny Texas Cheese Fries
• Thursday - Bacon, Gouda, and Peach Paninis
• Friday - Salisbury Steak Meatballs and Mashed Potatoes
• Saturday - Brats on the grill
• Sunday - Italian Beef Sandwiches

On my to do list: Prep for board meeting; Double check garage sale items; Order gift for a friend; Finish stamp club projects

Happening this week:

• Monday - Home day
• Tuesday - Grocery store and other errands; Board Meeting
• Wednesday - Park day?
• Thursday - Prenatal appointment; Stamp Club
• Friday - Home day
• Saturday - Craft Garage Sale
• Sunday - My Sprinkle; Friend's Going Away Party

What I am creating: I got on a weird kick the other day and decided to make photo books for Christmas gifts. I spent three hours researching different companies and then assembling a book highlighting Arthur's first and second years of life. Hope to start his volume two and order a sample book this coming week.

My simple pleasures: Hazelnut and French Vanilla coffee (so good); Excellent history books; Snuggly toddler

Looking around the house: We're in decent shape around here, but I feel the weird nesting phase coming on. I just want to declutter everything in this house!

From the camera: Yes we did bubbles in the house this week. We couldn't play in the backyard while the workers were painting the house. So indoor bubbles it is.

Life Right Now #25

On my bedside table: Better Than Before by Gretchen Rubin; Bunker Hill by Nathaniel Philbrick

On my tv this week: I finally got to watch Pride and Prejudice and Zombies while J was away on business. I loved loved loved it! Together we watched Zootopia (Arthur loved!), Rise of the Planet of the Apes. On the tv front, I've caught up with Season 3 of The Great British Baking Show. Makes me so hungry, but it's such a delight.

Listening to: The Scot and the Sassenach, One Bad Mother, Gilmore Guys, and The Simple Show podcasts.

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Tortellini
• Tuesday - Leftovers
• Wednesday - Potato Bacon Casserole; Coffee Cake
• Thursday - Tilapia
• Friday - Cajun Stuffed Chicken
• Saturday - Kielbasa Skillet
• Sunday - Black Bean Soup; Nachoes

Happening this week: I have no idea. We're still figuring out this one car thing so I didn't make any definite plans with others this coming week. Hopefully Arthur and I can make it to the grocery, park, and pool.

What I am creating: I caught up the family album and Arthur's album this weekend. I'm hoping to get the twins' albums up-to-date and start laying out the new baby's album. Plus, I have my Stampin' Up Holiday Catalog preorder coming tomorrow. I'm sure I'll spend some time playing with those goodies.

My simple pleasures: Green grapes! Snuggly toddlers! Cooler than 90 degree days.

Looking around the house: The downstairs need to be vacuumed again. And I should probably sweep the kitchen.

From the camera: Goodies from my One Bad Mother gift exchange. So excited about all these things!

Life Right Now #24

As I look outside my window: Super bright sunshine is blinding my spot on the couch. Thankfully Arthur's not up yet so I'm stealing his shady spot.

Right now I am: Eating a bagel, drinking coffee, and prepping to go to book club. Just going to be one mom friend and me today, but I don't care. It's a few hours away from the toddler. I need a bit of a break.

Thinking and pondering: Lots of people are contributing to a keepsake box for our friend who lost her husband last week. I want to write a personal note, but trying to decide what is the hardest part.

On my bedside table:  Washington's Secret Six by Brian Kilmeade; A Poisoned Season by Tasha Alexander

On my tv this week: San Andreas, The Wolverine, The Scorch Trials, Keanu. We had an interesting movie watching week. I enjoyed the ridiculousness of San Andreas and Keanu. The Wolverine was decent. And The Scorch Trials was just bad. I caught up on Reign over the week and holy crap that took a turn.

Listening to: One Bad Mother -- woohoo! Caught back up.

On the menu for this week:  Usually I have a beautiful meal plan for the upcoming week and somehow I've just dropped the ball after the twins left. So I have no idea what we are eating for the upcoming week. Guess what I'm doing tonight...

On my to do list: Get some stamps to send my August cards; finish Thunderstruck; send a few emails; switch Arthur to a twin sized bed!!!!

Happening this week:

• Monday - Maybe some errands
• Tuesday - Dropping Josh off at the airport for a ridiculously short trip to D.C.
• Wednesday - Maybe Seven Seas Park and Finance Committee Meeting
• Thursday - Bay Area Discovery Museum
• Friday - Nothing so far
• Saturday - Nothing so far
• Sunday - Book Club for The Glassblower of Murano

What I am creating: Starting to work on my August design team cards.

My simple pleasures: An ice cold Coke after a long morning at the park. I've tried to limit my pop consumption, but every once in awhile, I need one!

Looking around the house: Oof! I seriously need to vacuum and do a big general pick-up.

From the camera: The attitude from our summer social...

Life Right Now #23

Right now I am: Recovering from a crazy long day in San Francisco yesterday.

Thinking and pondering: A dear friend's husband died unexpectedly this morning. I am still in shock. She's currently living all the way across the country near her family. I'm at a loss at how to support her in this difficult time, but will continue to think about it.

On my bedside table: The Last Star by Rick Yancey; Thunderstruck by Erik Larson

On my tv this week: J and I caught up with some Another Period, Brain Dead, and Silicon Valley. On the movie front, we introduced the twins to Going Postal.

Listening to: Not much listening to music this week. I have been busy listening to Arthur's nonstop chatter. Wow that little boy has really opened up his vocabulary this past month.

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Italian Noodle Soup
• Tuesday - BBQ Chicken (double batch as I'm delivering some to a friend who just had a baby)
• Wednesday - Mongolian Beef over rice and veggies
• Thursday - Munchery delivery (we got a 50% off box)
• Friday - Munchery delivery
• Saturday - Munchery delivery
• Sunday - Leftovers

On my to do list: Summer social tasks, clean the house, probably some other things I'm forgetting about.

Happening this week:

• Monday - Shopping day: Social supplies, groceries
• Tuesday - Park day maybe; Board meeting
• Wednesday - Summer Social Prep Meeting
• Thursday - Library probably; Stamp club
• Friday - Buying summer social food (Costco run)
• Saturday - Summer Social; Friend's baby shower if not totally beat after the social
• Sunday - Book Club, Happiness Project Checkin (aka my day away)

My simple pleasures: Arnold Palmer's, the view from SF Wharf, my own bed

Looking around the house: The kitchen is a disaster zone. J had to take apart the dishwasher after it clogged. The result is dirty dishes and crap everywhere, Not looking forward to cleaning all that up.

From the camera: Hooligans outside of the candy store...

Life Right Now #22

As I look outside my window: Enjoying the bright sunshine on the leaves.

Right now I am: Pulling crafting supplies out for my crop day today.

Thinking and pondering: Lots of new baby related things. So much to do before October!

On my bedside table: The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood; Thunderstruck by Erik Larson

On my tv this week: J and I caught up with Another Period, Full Frontal, Silicon Valley, and Turn. He also got me to watch The Puppet Masters based on Heinlein's book. Creepy creepy stuff! I fit in a few episodes of Outlander and started rewatching Gilmore Girls (Netflix). J and I also started our science fiction movie marathon with the original, 1902's A Trip to the Moon.

Listening to: Lots of Hamilton, The Gilmore Guys podcast, and What Should I Read Next podcast.

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Chicken Parmesan
• Tuesday - Tacos
• Wednesday - Ranch Cheddar Chicken
• Thursday - Leftovers
• Friday - Out to Fish Market with mom and great aunt Alys
• Saturday - Out somewhere near hotel
• Sunday - No idea...

On my to do list: Finish out the summer with the twins; review tasks for the upcoming summer social; library run; start shopping for Arthur's big boy bed; nail down a retreat house and plan; nail down a birthday party date

Happening this week:

• Monday - Haircuts for the twins; Family mini golf night
• Tuesday - Pool party at a friend's house; Board meeting
• Wednesday - Park playdate for Arthur, Mini golf/arcade for twins; Lunch out; Trip to the candy store in MV; Shopping for last minute twin stuff
• Thursday - Pool day; Prenatal appt for me
• Friday - Mom and Great Aunt Alys arrive, dinner out with them
• Saturday - San Francisco Day with the boys, my mom, and Great Aunt
• Sunday - Twins, mom, and great aunt leave for Indiana

What I am creating: Working on my June Project Life pages today. Hoping I can get them finished during the crop day. Then I'm moving on to each of the boy's albums.

My simple pleasures: Cake, uninterrupted showers, a good book

Looking around the house: We need to do another sweeping clean before Friday...

From the camera: My little cowboy

Life Right Now #21

As I look outside my window: I notice that the weeds in the dirt patch of a backyard are getting out of control. I may have to do something about that soon...

Right now I am: Getting ready to pop over to the grocery store before the crowds get crazy

Thinking and pondering: How are we going to navigate this fall? So many things to cover...

On my bedside table: The Glassblower of Murano by Marina Fiorato; The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood

On my tv this week: J and I wrapped up Veep, watched a few documentaries, and almost caught up with Silicon Valley; We all watched John Wick and Blade Runner for our movie selections

Listening to: Hamilton Soundtrack; The Simple Show podcast; What Should I Read Next podcast

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Hamburgers/hot dogs on grill
• Tuesday - Beef Tips
• Wednesday - Chicken and Noodles
• Thursday - Blue Apron delivery
• Friday - Blue Apron deliver
• Saturday - Leftovers
• Sunday - Pizza Day

On my to do list: Starting shopping for twins' return to Indiana; squeeze in the last few fun activities

Happening this week:

• Monday - Fourth of July and so far we aren't doing anything
• Tuesday - Oakland Zoo Day
• Wednesday - Beach Day at Half Moon Bay
• Thursday - Haircuts and errands
• Friday - Chabot Space and Science Center
• Saturday - Toddler friend's bday party
• Sunday - Crop day at my house

What I am creating: Nothing at the moment, but thinking ahead to July's stamp club cards.

My simple pleasures: Pinball machines! We had so much fun on Saturday at the Pacific Pinball Museum. I was killing The Addams Family game!

Looking around the house: Decent shape around here. Our big cleaning day was Friday and everything still looks pretty good. Although I know I have two loads of laundry to do today.

From the camera: Pinball Wizard!

Life Right Now #20

As I look outside my window: Very bright sunshine creating a huge glare on my computer screen

Right now I am: Finished my breakfast, watching Arthur watch Paw Patrol, and finally getting the stamp club order in

Thinking and pondering:  How many responsibilities do I want to take on for the Design Team? Big transition of leadership happening and I said I would help out. Just don't know exactly how much I want to do.

On my bedside table: The Infinite Sea by Rick Yancey, The Mark of the Midnight Manzanilla by Lauren Willig

On my tv this week: We introduced the boys to Hogfather, continuing our Pratchett movies. J and I caught up on some Veep and Silicon Valley. And the twins restarted The IT Crowd.

Listening to: Hamilton Soundtrack. Every time I put it on, Arthur grabs the microphone and proceeds to sing and dance. So cute!

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Broccoli Beef, Rice, Veggies, Dumplings
• Tuesday - Garlic Shrimp Pasta, Tortellini, Garlic Bread
• Wednesday - Chicken Ranch Tacos
• Thursday - Eggs, Bacon, Coffee Cake, Skillet Potatoes
• Friday - Ham and Potato Soup, Dinner Rolls
• Saturday - Hot Dogs and Brats on Grill, Chips, Veggie, Fruit
• Sunday - Leftovers

On my to do list: Finish up some cards, cut and package paper shares, clean downstairs, finish The Magician's Land (so close to the end!), finish Week in the Life album (so close to being done)

Happening this week:

• Monday - Nothing...
• Tuesday - Don Castro Regional Park Beach Day
• Wednesday - Half Moon Bay Beach Day
• Thursday - Library visit, errands probably
• Friday - Nothing so far...
• Saturday - Asian Art Museum Visit
• Sunday - Book Club; Happiness Project Check-in

What I am creating: I've got a few card ideas for this coming week...

My simple pleasures: All the fruit!

Looking around the house: Arthur's made his usual mess, but overall the house is in decent shape. Just needs a quick vacuum and wipe down this week.

From the camera: We had lunch at Nola before going to the Computer History Museum on Saturday. A got the French Toast Bananas Foster and N got the Monster Pulled Pork Sandwich. We have so much leftovers, but it was amazing!

Life Right Now #19

As I look outside my window: Breezy and bright

Right now I am: Checking emails and FB before tackling my May Project Life pages.

Thinking and pondering: What does the future hold for us? We've got some big decisions to make in the next few months.

On my bedside table:nVoyager by Diana Gabaldon, In the Heart of the Sea by Nathaniel Philbrick

On my tv this week: J and I have been catching up with Turn and Silicon Valley. Plus we watched The Kingsman with the twins. They really enjoyed it.

Listening to: Lots of podcasts including One Bad Mother and What Should I Read Next

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Chili and Cornbread
• Tuesday - Chicken Ranch Tacos
• Wednesday - Garlic Shrimp Pasta
• Thursday - Leftovers
• Friday - Broccoli Beef
• Saturday - Brats and Hots Dogs on the Grill
• Sunday - ???

On my to do list: Other than regular house chores, nothing really detailed.

Happening this week:

• Monday - Nothing planned so far. Maybe library visit or mini golf
• Tuesday - Prenatal appointment including glucose text
• Wednesday - Either a park playdate or visit to the opening day of the Alameda County Fair
• Thursday - Beach Day; Grocery; Stamp Club
• Friday - Possible card class at home
• Saturday - Computer History Museum
• Sunday - Possible card class at home

What I am creating: I have stamp club on Thursday and I haven't made the projects yet. I know which stamp sets I want to use, but I need to actually made the kits...

My simple pleasures: Chocolate chip cookies. I'm going simple this week.

Looking around the house: Things are in decent shape, but I still have a ton of stuff out from the crafting open house. Trying to decide what to put away and what to leave out for stamp club on Thursday. Still debating...

From the camera: Sneakily caught a pic of A and A playing together.

Life Right Now #18

As I look outside my window: Squinting from the sudden sunshine... We did have a big of hazy fog this morning, but it burned off very quickly.

Right now I am: Finishing my coffee and getting ready to go take a shower if the toddler allows.

Thinking and pondering: Do I want to haul the toddler to the pool today or skip it until tomorrow?

On my bedside table: The Drunken Botanist; The Magician's Land; Heart of the Sea

On my tv this week: We introduced the twins to Spy and The Colour of Magic. J and I finished Plebs and we caught up on a few episodes of Turn.

Listening to: Along with the Hamilton soundtrack, I managed to squeeze in two episodes of One Bad Mother while playing with the toddler.

On the menu for this week: Last week's meal plan went completely off track...

• Monday - Bacon Cheese Peach Paninis
• Tuesday - Balsalmic Pork Roast
• Wednesday - Potato Bacon Casserole, Eggs
• Thursday - Apple Cheddar Chicken
• Friday - Cheesy Rice, Broccoli, and Chicken Skillet
• Saturday - Leftovers
• Sunday - Cheesy Artichoke Pasta, Tortellini

On my to do list: I've got a couple of emails that need to be written and a few remaining housekeeping tasks.

Happening this week:

• Monday - Lazy day?
• Tuesday - Oakland Zoo; Board Meeting
• Wednesday - Library Day
• Thursday - Cleaning Day
• Friday - Chabot Space Center
• Saturday - Crop Day!!!!!
• Sunday - Book Club; Chabot Members Only Movie and Stargazing

What I am creating: I finished catching up the twins' albums. I started laying out May's PL pages for the family album. I printed my WITL pictures to work on that. And I finished a few design team cards. I'm hoping to work on my WITL album during the crop day on Saturday.

My simple pleasures:  AC keeping the house around 74 degrees, fresh fruit (especially nectarines and raspberries), grocery delivery, snuggles from the toddler

Looking around the house: We vacuumed and swept the entire house, wiped down the bathrooms, took out the trash, and put away all the laundry on Friday. I wish my house always looked this good...

From the camera: Playing before dinner the other day.

Life Right Now #17

As I look outside my window: Bright and sunny with some large birds circling the sky. The perfect California morning.

Right now I am: Drinking coffee and lounging in the sunbeam. I love quiet mornings with breakfast and the toddler.

Thinking and pondering: What should we buy at Costco? With the twins here now, I'm trying to be more strategic with our grocery buying. I want them to have their favorite foods, but we need to be mindful of the cost. I think the grocery budget is my number one stressor right now...

On my bedside table: The Passion of the Purple Plumeria by Lauren Willig; The Magician's Land by Lev Grossman

On my tv this week: I started rewatching Outlander so I can finally catch up. J and I have been watching Archer, Plebs, and Horizons (the usual). Last night, we introduced the twins to Ant Man. They requested an action comedy. I think it works. And it's the only Marvel movie they haven't seen (besides Deadpool which will not be shown to them yet).

Listening to: I'm still working on catching up with Elisa Gets Crafty. Only like 30 episodes behind...

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Chicken and Noodles
• Tuesday - Pizza Night
• Wednesday - Frozen meal (probably chicken and rice)
• Thursday - Balsamic Pork Roast
• Friday - Leftovers
• Saturday - Bacon Cheese Peach Paninis
• Sunday - Spicy Thai Noodles

On my to do list: Still working on prepping my big crafting open house on June 11th. I also have a few random house projects to complete. And of course, we've got summer activities in full swing.

Happening this week:

• Monday - Nothing at all... we'll probably hit the pool
• Tuesday - $1.31 Scoop Day at Baskin Robbins! Errand day: Target, Sprouts, Costco?
• Wednesday - Hiller Aviation Museum with food trucks!
• Thursday - Pancake making at a friend's house
• Friday - Nothing
• Saturday - Parent Group Potluck
• Sunday - Nothing yet...

What I am creating: Been working on some cards using new and carrying over items. I've knocked out 5 In Color cards and 3 Design Team Cards this past weekend. Hoping to get at least 2 more Design Team cards done this coming week.

My simple pleasures: Fruit ice pops. I grabbed a recipe book from the library. Can't wait to make them all!

Looking around the house: I got the dining room cleaned up just in time to destroy the craft area. Yep, that's about normal.

From the camera: The twins as they left Indiana to fly here.

Life Right Now #16

As I look outside my window: Partly cloudy and chilly... It's only supposed to be 64 degrees today! Brrr... That's after almost 90 degrees days last week.

Right now I am: Finishing a pop tart, drinking coffee, checking FB, and getting ready to head off to book club.

Thinking and pondering: How do I find the time or concentration to take on work-from-home type jobs with a toddler running around and no childcare? Ugh, I hate finances.

On my bedside table: Childhood's End by Arthur C. Clarke,  Voyager by Diana Gabaldon,  In the Shadow of the Banyan by Vaddey Ratner

On my tv this week: We're been watching a ton of Plebs and Portlandia. Plus we watched a decent episode of NOVA about the Vikings.

Listening to: One day Arthur and I listened to a ton of The Beatles. Another day, we chose The Gorillaz. He was really digging The Gorillaz.

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Leftovers
• Tuesday - Texas Cheese Fries
• Wednesday - Chicken and Noodles
• Thursday - Kale and White Bean Soup
• Friday - Leftovers
• Saturday - Chicken Parmesan (Nick requested)
• Sunday - Tacos, Black Bean Soup

On my to do list: Lots and lots of things to do this coming week

• Finished prepping social committee, holiday bazaar, and retreat info meetings
• Get started on my book club book
• Finish pulling out retired stuff, organize the craft area
• Finish researching our summer bucket list
• Start planning mom and great aunt's visit in July
• Grocery run
• Lots of laundry
• Clean twins' room before Saturday
• Finish twins' PL album (up to date for summer)
• Update May, June, and July calendars
• Catch up on some blog posts, make a plan for summer

Happening this week:

• Monday - Rest day with probably some errands
• Tuesday - Social Committee Planning Meeting
• Wednesday - Holiday Bazaar Planning Meeting; Finance Committee Meeting
• Thursday - Retreat Info Meeting
• Friday - Nothing planned so far
• Saturday - The twins arrive!!!
• Sunday - Probably a lazy day at the house

What I am creating: Not really creating, but I am cleaning out my craft area. I'm pulling all the retiring items for my crop day sale, making card kits to sell, collecting my current SU items, and getting sprucing up my area. Once I finish the list, I can get back to crafting using my new products.

My simple pleasures: Welch's Peach Mango juice -- my new obsession

Looking around the house: Our downstairs toilet is still not working right. J bought a part, but it hasn't been installed yet. I hate having to go upstairs to pee...

From the camera: Someone is obsessed with brushing his teeth right now...

Life Right Now #15

On my bedside table: Voyager by Diana Gabaldon,  In the Shadow of the Banyan by Vaddey Ratner

On my tv this week: I caught up with Reign and almost caught up with Once Upon a time. I also restarted Outlander so I can eventually catch up. J and I have been finished Atlantis, continuing with Turn, and starting to catch up with Shield.

Listening to: More Elise Gets Crafty podcast episodes. I've also been switching between AltNation and Octane a lot lately.

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Italian Beef Sandwiches, Chips, Veggies
• Tuesday - BBQ Chicken, Potatoes, Veggies, Rolls
• Wednesday - Mediterranean Orzo Salad
• Thursday - Texas Cheese Fries
• Friday - Leftovers
• Saturday - Chicken and Noodles
• Sunday - Black Bean Soup

On my to do list: Prep for Retreat info, Summer Social, and Holiday Bazaar planning meetings; Cleaning; Shopping for twins for summer; Costco run for twin food and some basics; Stamp club examples; Start on June design team cards

Happening this week: I'm documenting our Week in the Life this week. Hoping to tell some great stories in our family album.

• Monday - Kids' Table: Pizza Making; Park Playdate (if Arthur isn't too tired)
• Tuesday - Prenatal appointment; Errands
• Wednesday - Seven Seas Park Playdate
• Thursday - Retreat Info Meeting; Stamp Club
• Friday - Rest and chore day at home
• Saturday - Maker Faire!!!
• Sunday - Book club

What I am creating:  June design team cards with some new Stampin' Up products. I only bought a few things for preorder, but I am looking forward to playing with them before my big June order.

My simple pleasures: Sparkling water, chocolate pudding, croissants

Looking around the house: We need to switch Arthur from the crib to a twin sized bed, but first we need to buy a mattress and rearranged his room...

From the camera: Little boy in a rocket...

Life Right Now #14

As I look outside my window: It's a bit overcast out there...

Right now I am: Finishing my coffee and curling up on the couch to read a bit before the toddler gets crazy again.

Thinking and pondering: Mother's Day is just an all around disappointment. Would love to feel appreciated at least one day of the year.

On my bedside table: And Only to Deceive by Tasha Alexander; The Magician King by Lev Grossman

On my tv this week: J had me watch Krod Mandoon. So very very ridiculous. We caught up with Houdini and Doyle. Damn that got dark, but I love it! I finally caught up with Reign. And last night, I finally got to see Deadpool. So very very adult and good.

Listening to: One Bad Mother! I was three episodes behind but now I've caught up.

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Black Bean Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
• Tuesday - Leftovers
• Wednesday - Taquitos
• Thursday - Toasted Sandwiches
• Friday - Frozen Meal (possibly chicken and rice)
• Saturday - Italian Beef Sandwiches
• Sunday - Leftovers

On my to do list: Finish prepping for the sprinkle on Saturday. Definitely some house chores. Finish The Blood of Olympus. Return some library books.

Happening this week:

• Monday - Day at home...
• Tuesday - Library and errands
• Wednesday - Beach day!
• Thursday - Day at home..
• Friday - Visit to Chabot Space and Science Center
• Saturday - Sprinkle
• Sunday - Sprinkle; Park meetup

What I am creating: Finishing catching up with the twins' PL albums. Hoping to prep the new baby's PL album. And prepping for Week in the Life.

My simple pleasures: Brownies warm out of the oven, bullet journaling

Looking around the house: The downstairs is relatively clean right now... Wonder how long it will last.

From the camera: He makes a cute flying monkey.

Life Right Now #13

As I look outside my window: Dark and stormy... just kidding. It's sunny and beautiful outside.

Right now I am: Getting ready to leave for book club.

Thinking and pondering: What should be on the menu plan for next week?

On my bedside table: A big stack of graphic novels, Blood of Olympus by Rick Riordan, Breathe by Sarah Crossan, and And Only to Deceive by Tasha Alexander.

On my tv this week: I finally watched Pitch Perfect 2 and promptly cried during the ending... J and I finally watched Spectre. And we caught up with some Full Frontal, Children's Hospital, Shield, and Plebs.

Listening to: Not much this week. Although I get squeeze in a few episodes of Elise Gets Crafty.

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Black bean stuffed sweet potatoes
• Tuesday - Frozen meals or leftovers
• Wednesday - Pressed Picnic Sandwiches
• Thursday - Beef Stew
• Friday - Leftovers
• Saturday - Burgers on the grill
• Sunday - Nothing planned; hopefully I do't have to cook

On my to do list: Drop off charity books, prep for board meeting, clean the house, finish at least one book, prep for Bout of Books, prep Week in the Life album

Happening this week:

• Monday - Big anatomy scan!
• Tuesday - Oakland Zoo, Charity Drop-off, and Board Meeting
• Wednesday - Potentially park playdate
• Thursday - Children's Fairyland
• Friday - Probably errands
• Saturday - MVPA potluck
• Sunday - Mother's Day which probably means nothing exciting for me

What I am creating: May design team cards. I knocked out five in one day. I have at least four more finish for this month.

My simple pleasures: Ice cream (although it doesn't quite agree with me now), nice pens, comfy clothes, ice water

Looking around the house: The house is constantly in disarray. Ugh.

From the camera:  Looking cute while playing

Life Right Now #12

As I look outside my window: Bright and sunny. Actual the sun is causing a huge glare on my laptop. I would move but this is my couch spot for morning!

Right now I am: Drinking coffee and prepping to leave for my morning meeting. A few hours away from the toddler = precious!

Thinking and pondering: Trying to decide our meal plan and activity plans for May. So many choices...

On my bedside table: Me After You by Jojo Moyes, The Magician King by Lev Grossman, The Garden Intrigue by Lauren Willig

On my tv this week: We finished season 1 of The Magicians. Holy cow that was intense! We've also been catching up on Elementary, Turn, Archer, and Last Week Tonight. And we started Houdini and Doyle. I love Stephen Mangan and Michael Weston. Definitely a keeper!

Listening to: A giant mix from my iPod. Ive got a bit of everything on there but I've really been digging some Florence + the Machine, Mumford & Sons, and Arctic Monkeys.

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Garlic Ranch Pizza
• Tuesday - Tater Tot Casserole
• Wednesday - Leftovers
• Thursday - Baked Potato Soup and Molasses Rolls
• Friday - Frozen meal
• Saturday - Cookout at our house! We're making Ring of Fire Chicken, Kale Caesar Pasta Salad, Apple Crisp with Caramel Sauce, and a Blueberry Pie. I'm sure others will bring things.
• Sunday - Leftovers

On my to do list: I'm in charge of buying books for our spring charity. I want to make sure to get books for a variety of ages and books that are cheap. We need to stretch our money! I also need to figure out my Stampin' Up plan for the next few months. The retiring list comes out tomorrow. The new catalog launches June 1st. I want to reevaluate my current supplies, strategically plan my purchases for April and May, and prep for a possibly catalog launch in June!

Happening this week:

• Monday - Nothing activity wise, but Stampin' Up's retiring list will be up. I'll be spending some time looking at that. And I'll have a ton of errands to do: grocery, Target, and Half Price Books (for our spring charity donation)
• Tuesday - Children's Fairyland
• Wednesday - Seven Seas Park
• Thursday - Probably errands; Stamp Club
• Friday - Possibly a walk at Shoreline
• Saturday - Cookout at our house
• Sunday - Book club over Let's Pretend This Never Happened by Jenny Lawson

What I am creating: Nothing at the moment although I am starting to lay out my card designs for May's SSINK Design Team cards.

My simple pleasures: Cucumber Mint Unsweetened Sparkling Water from Target. I found a case on clearance and it's been just the thing to help keep my nausea down. I don't want to drink pop, but I find the carbonation helpful. Sparkling water is perfect but I like a bit of flavor. These little cans are perfect for right now. I'm hoping they have more when I go back tomorrow.

Looking around the house: I'm participating in our parent group garage in May and I need to start the process of setting the sale stuff aside. I think I'll start in the master bedroom and work myself downstairs. I have my big anatomy ultrasound on May 2nd. If it's a boy, we'll be keeping all of Arthur's old clothes of course. If it's a girl, I will be keeping some clothes and selling others. Guess that means that Arthur's room will have to wait until after that scan...

From the camera: From the spring social yesterday.

Life Right Now #11

As I look outside my window: Grey and rainy. It's been raining for three days now. As much as I love falling asleep to the rain, I think I'm ready for the sunshine to reappear.

Right now I am: Drinking some coffee and eating some breakfast while Arthur watches Mighty Machines.

Thinking and pondering: I need a better plan for this week. The lack of activities could result in too much tv and couch time. Time to pull out my daily pages...

On my bedside table: Almost finished with A Dance with Dragons. From there, I'm planning to read Ready Player One by Ernest Cline, Failure is Impossible by Lynn Sherr, and Let’s Pretend This Never Happened by Jenny Lawson (reread for book club in April)

On my tv this week: J and I caught up with Limitless and The Magicians. Holy cow! Those two shows are killing me (in a good way). I also started watching The Property Brothers S3 during the day.

Listening to: Nothing much this week. A few podcasts here and there, but nothing that exciting.

On the menu for this week: A light menu as we are trying to cut the grocery budget and use the food already in the kitchen.

• Monday - Sausage Crescent Roll, Eggs, Muffins, Oatmeal
• Tuesday - Dijon Brown Sugar Flank Steak, Veggies, Rolls
• Wednesday - Leftovers
• Thursday - Fish, probably Parmesan Tilapia
• Friday - Frozen meal, probably Tex Mex Chicken
• Saturday - Garlic Ranch Chicken Pizza
• Sunday - Pulled Pork Sandwiches

On my to do list: Buy and construct the photo booth frame. Finish a few blog posts. Send out April birthday cards. Send out sprinkle invites. Meal plan for the rest of April.

Happening this week: Super light week. After last week's crazy activities, it will be nice to step back and get a handle on house stuff and future planning.

• Monday - Maybe the park and errands
• Tuesday - Maybe the library
• Wednesday - Spring Social Prep Meeting
• Thursday - Maybe San Francisco Walk with Fremont ladies
• Friday - Nothing, probably house chores
• Saturday - Spring Social!!!!
• Sunday - Happiness Project Check-in

What I am creating: A few design team cards, prepping for Week in the Life in May, Catching up Arthur and twins' PL albums, Sprinkle cards and banners (for May)

My simple pleasures: Rainy nights to fall asleep, granola, grocery deals, snuggly toddlers

Looking around the house: How can Arthur trash the playroom and living room in under 10 minutes? This place is a disaster.

From the camera: Playing with the frogs.

Life Right Now #10

As I look outside my window: Foggy in the canyon

Right now I am: Getting ready to head out to two different book clubs today. So excited for a bit of me time.

Thinking and pondering: Lots of home organization questions...

On my bedside table: Ready Player One by Ernest Cline; Failure is Impossible by Lynn Sherr; Let’s Pretend This Never Happened by Jenny Lawson (reread for book club in April)

On my tv this week: J and I jumped right back into The Magicians, It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia, and Limitless. Plus Archer started back up again! Woohoo! Arthur and I finally watched The Good Dinosaur. I enjoyed that one.

Listening to: I caught up with One Bad Mother and What Should I Read Next while traveling home.

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Apple Orchard Panini and Chips
• Tuesday - BBQ Chicken (double batch to save some for a friend's meal train)
• Wednesday - Spicy Thai Noodles (new recipe for me!)
• Thursday - Sausage Crescent Rolls, Eggs, and Muffins
• Friday - Leftovers
• Saturday - Out possibly...
• Sunday - Chili and Cornbread

On my to do list: Buy PVC for photo booth frame, gets twins reenrolled, pay for the social, finish A Dance with Dragons

Happening this week:

• Monday - Oakland Zoo!
• Tuesday - Doctor's appointment in the morning. Board meeting in the evening.
• Wednesday - Seven Seas Park Playdate
• Thursday - Bay Area Discovery Museum
• Friday - Cleaning, chore catch up
• Saturday - Nothing so far
• Sunday - Crop day

What I am creating: PL pages for March. Getting my printed pics today!

My simple pleasures: Chocolate donuts, my own bed, stretchy clothes

Looking around the house: We need to do some serious spring cleaning around here!

Life Right Now #9

As I look outside my window: Darkness (okay so I'm writing this on Saturday night because I know I'll forgot to on Sunday morning)

Right now I am: Sitting on the couch while the twins play video games, my mom reads, and the toddler is actually sleeping.

Thinking and pondering: When will I start to feel better? Having a bit of a week...

On my bedside table: Let's Pretend This Never Happened by Jenny Lawson (reread for book club in April), The Orchid Affair by Lauren Willig (love the Pink Carnation series!), and possibly Ready Player One by Ernest Cline (one my TBR short list).

On my tv this week: Mom had me watch Gotham while I was here. Not too bad, although I'm not jumping up to watch it. Other than that, we just haven't been watching much tv while here in Indiana.

Listening to: Catching up on podcasts including the end of this season's Here to Make Friends. I love their snark about The Bachelor series. Can't wait until May when The Bachelorette starts. I've also been trying to catch up with One Bad Mother (only 1 episode behind now) and What Should I Read Next (5 episodes behind).

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Dinner out with mom and great aunt
• Tuesday - Dinner out with mom
• Wednesday - I imagine carry-out as Arthur and I will have been traveling all day
• Thursday - ??? Maybe a freezer meal
• Friday - Mongolian Beef with rice and veggies
• Saturday - Black Bean Soup and Quesadillas
• Sunday - Sausage Crescent Roll with Eggs

On my to do list: Travel home! Write a few blog posts. Finish my current book before I leave for California (Indiana library book). Follow-up emails for the spring social. Probably laundry and cleaning...

Happening this week:

• Monday - Lunch and catching up time with an Indiana friend; Dinner with mom and great aunt
• Tuesday - Packing to go home
• Wednesday - Travel Day
• Thursday - Travel decompress day (probably laundry and cleaning house also)
• Friday - ???
• Saturday - A One Bad Mother area meetup! I can't wait to meet some of the OBPs in real life!
• Sunday - Two books clubs! Busy busy...

What I am creating: Nothing. Can't wait to get back into my craft area when I get home.

My simple pleasures: Lemon pound cake, iced tea, Hershey nuggets, snuggles from the toddler, dinner with an old friend.

Looking around the house: Arthur has seriously strewn toys everywhere. Guess what i'm doing on Monday.

From the camera: Arthur and his Easter egg. So excited about dyeing them. It was his first time...

Life Right Now #8

As I look outside my window: Sunny but I know it's cold out there. We are in Indiana in March...

Right now I am: Enjoying a bit of late brunch before the in-laws come to pick up Arthur and I.

Thinking and pondering: Our game plan for this week. The twins are off for spring break and we have a whole week to fill with activities...

On my bedside table: Fables Vol. 22; The Orchid Affair by Lauren Willig; Dead Mr. You by Mary Louise Parker

On my tv this week: I finally finished The Bachelor. So upset with his choice, but super glad that my choice gets to be the new Bachelorette. Otherwise, we haven't really watched tv while in Indiana.

Listening to: The twins babble on about their games...

On the menu for this week: No idea. Mom keeps a lid on her dinners, but I do know that she wants me to make Chicken Parmesan sometime this week.

On my to do list: Take the boys shopping. Make sure to buy them shoes...

Happening this week:

• Monday - Shopping day with the twins
• Tuesday - Probably the library and maybe visit to grandma and grandpa.
• Wednesday - Nick has a doctor's appointment for his broken arm. We have to drive all the way down to Anderson. Blech!
• Thursday - No idea...
• Friday - Mom's off so we might do something together
• Saturday - No idea...
• Sunday - Easter. No idea about our actual plans yet.

What I am creating: Lots of lists. I didn't bring my craft supplies as we are only here 2 weeks, but I did plan on working on my blog and other to-do lists and plans.

My simple pleasures: Lemon cake, iced tea, snuggling with the toddler.

Looking around the house: This isn't even our house and Arthur has a ton of toys here.

From the camera:

Life Right Now #7

As I look outside my window: Gray and a bit foggy. The usual weather for my birthday weekend.

Right now I am: Eating breakfast. I know pretty boring...

Thinking and pondering: I got a free coffee from Starbucks for my birthday. The trick is that it expires today... Ugh Starbucks! I get 48 hours to use my birthday reward? I really want my free latte, but that requires packing up the toddler, driving to Starbucks, and getting out of the car because the closest Starbuck's drive through is all the way at Bay Fair. Should I go???

On my bedside table: Mr. Penumbra's 24-Hour Bookstore by Robin Sloan; I, Robot by Isaac Asimov; The Manhattan Projects Vo. 3-5

On my tv this week: Lots of Turn S2. I so love that show!

Listening to: Arthur babbles. He's nonstop talking lately.

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Bacon, Cheese, Peach Paninis
• Tuesday - Bacon and Spinach Pasta
• Wednesday - Leftovers
• Thursday-Saturday - Retreat!!!!
• Sunday - ??? I'll probably pick up something easy on the way back from the retreat.

On my to do list: Pack for the retreat!!!!

Happening this week:

• Monday - Cleaning day
• Tuesday - Possibly a trip to Mel's Play Place for Arthur
• Wednesday - Quick shopping trip for the retreat; MVPA Board meeting
• Thursday-Sunday - MVPA Retreat!!!!

What I am creating: Stamp Club cards -- One down, I have two cards to go

My simple pleasures: Yummy food -- We had German potato salad, pickle wraps, Ring of Fire chicken, brats, chips and dip, pasta salad, and delicious chocolate cake for my birthday cookout yesterday. Today, we get leftovers!

Looking around the house: I'm really needing to do a deep clean on the bathrooms this week...

From the camera: My first attempt at making scones. The consistency was a bit off, but they were oh so yummy!