Life Right Now #37

As I look outside my window: Slightly gray and overcast after raining all day yesterday

Right now I am: Waiting for the doctor to call me back. May need to pop in to the office tomorrow. Ugh!

Thinking and pondering: How am I going to get everything I need to get done today feeling like crap?

On my bedside table: ??? I haven't finished a book in over a week. I need to focus on finishing before thinking about what's next.

On my tv this week: J and I started watching Those Who Can't. Reminds us of It's Always Sunny. Lots of juvenile humor, but it definitely has it's moments. I've made it to Season 6 of Gilmore Girls. I may be able to watch the new miniseries in January. So excited, but determined to finish rewatching before the new.

Listening to: The Hamilton Mix Tape. Oh so good! I think my favorite is Andra Day's version of "Burn."

On the menu for this week: The boys and I are traveling to Indiana on Tuesday. I'm making Spicy Thai Noodles for Monday night before traveling. I have no idea what my mom has planned for dinner for the rest of the week.

On my to do list: Pack!!!! I also need to drop off a package at the post office and buy stamps for the rest of my Christmas cards.

Happening this week:

• Monday - Charity drive drop-off in South Bay; last minute errands
• Tuesday - Travel day
• Wednesday - ???
• Thursday - ???
• Friday -Twins are getting picked up from their dad's house
• Saturday - Reindeer and Santa at the Conservatory; Christmas for my dad's side of the family
• Sunday - ???

What I am creating: I finished up a few projects yesterday so I can pack for Indiana. I have three new catalog swaps I'm participating in. To help cut down on my packing bulk, I stamped and cut everything for the swaps. I just need to assemble while in Indiana and send out.

My simple pleasures: Sleep. Oh man, I miss sleep. Q has randomly slept 5-6 hours during the night a few times. It was glorious, but now I remember what I'm missing when he doesn't.

Looking around the house: Disaster zone! I'm not sure how much is going to get cleaned up before we leave. Depends on how the rest of today goes.

From the camera: From our cookie exchange on Thursday.

Life Right Now #36

As I look outside my window: I see some birds walking along the the top of our fence. They really like our yard. We must have some good bugs back there.

Right now I am: Prepping to go to the Secret Snowflake. Arthur's super excited!

On my bedside table: Voyager by Diana Gabaldon (need to get back to this one); A Poisoned Season by Tasha Alexander

On my tv this week: J and I started Legends of Tomorrow. We also enjoyed Lin-Manuel Miranda's Drunk History episode. So much joy!

Listening to: The Hamilton Mixtapes. So much joy!

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Ham and Cheese Grilled Sandwich
• Tuesday - Kielbasa Skillet; Rolls
• Wednesday - Cajun Stuffed Chicken; Parmesan Potatoes; Brussel Sprouts
• Thursday - Tater Tot Casserole
• Friday - Leftovers
• Saturday - Taco Soup
• Sunday - Loaded Baked Potatoes

On my to do list:

• Prep shoebox swap
• Start packing
• Bake cookies for exchange
• Send first round of Christmas cards
• Gather library books for return
• Send secret santa gift
• Formulate swap card ideas
• Work on Project Life spreads

Happening this week:

• Monday - Oakland Zoo Visit!
• Tuesday - Home day; MVPA Board Meeting
• Wednesday - Home day; Shoebox Swap
• Thursday - Cookie Exchange
• Friday - Home day
• Saturday - Shoebox swap and crop day; Oakland Zoo Lights
• Sunday - Home day

What I am creating: I'm in the middle of 30 Days of Lists, 12 Days of Coloring, and The Happy Planner Instagram Challenge. Very exciting, but I need to stay on top of my challenges.

My simple pleasures: Coffee, coffee, and more coffee

Looking around the house: There is crap everywhere. I need to do a systematic sweep through the house before leaving for Indiana.

From the camera: My brain dump...

Life Right Now #35

As I look outside my window: Gray day... makes me want a cup of tea and curl up with a good book.

Right now I am: Snuggling with the littlest bug. Savoring all the baby snuggles.

On my bedside table: Revival; Scarlet by Marissa Meyer

On my tv this week: Lots more Gilmore Girls; (I'm about halfway through season 4 right now); Drunk History; Full Frontal; The Mechanic 2 (stupid action); Kubo and the Two Swords (so good!)

Listening to: One Bad Mother. Somehow I got three episodes behind.

On the menu for this week: Completely forgot to make a meal plan for this coming week. Thanksgiving really threw me off. Guess what I'm doing today.

On my to do list: Get Q's birth certificate; Make a passport appointment; start packing; update calendars; finish at least one book; and lots of other things...

Happening this week:

• Monday - Q's 2 month doctor appointment; grocery run
• Tuesday - Home day
• Wednesday - Niles Canyon Railroad Light Train
• Thursday - Christmas Stamp-a-Stack Class
• Friday - Home day
• Saturday - Birthday Party for Friends
• Sunday - Secret Snowflake

What I am creating: I need to finish the favors for the Cookie Exchange in two weeks. I'm also prepping the holiday albums for Christmas presents. And I need to finish my December cards. At least the ones that I can do before getting my Occasions Catalog preorder.

My simple pleasures: Apple ciders; martinis; twice baked sweet potatoes; rainy day snuggles; quiet time to read

Looking around the house: There are a few odds and ends dishes to finish washing by hand. And I really need to sweep the kitchen again.

From the camera: Outtake from the other day...

Life Right Now #34

Thinking and pondering: All the projects and tasks before Christmas. Diving into the busy season.

On my bedside table: Paris For One by Jojo Moyes; Scarlet by Marissa Meyer

On my tv this week: Random show were watched this week. Being sick creates some weird watching habits. On my own, I've watched a few episodes of Penny Dreadful (only the series finale left!) and many many episodes of Gilmore Girls (finally on season 4).

Listening to: Nothing in particular. Loving the quiet moments throughout the day.

On the menu for this week: Last week's meal plan was dramatically changed due to a forgotten Munchery delivery and sickness. Most of the meals we were supposed to have last week are on the list for this week.

• Monday - BBQ Chicken, Apple, Cheddar, Bacon Quesadillas
• Tuesday - Balsamic Pork Roast
• Wednesday - Pasta with Sardines
• Thursday - Thanksgiving
• Friday - Ham and Cheese Pretzel Sandwiches
• Saturday - Leftovers
• Sunday - ??? No idea

On my to do list:

• Thanksgiving! We're hosting a small group here. Lots of cooking and general house prep needing to get done.
• Finish at least one of the three books I'm currently reading.
• Start my Christmas packing list
• Start addressing my Christmas cards
• Drop off library books
• Buy stamps
• Grocery run

Happening this week:

• Monday - Errand and grocery day
• Tuesday - Possibly Mel's Play Place
• Wednesday - Thanksgiving prep
• Thursday - Thanksgiving!!!
• Friday - Thanksgiving recovery
• Saturday - Crop day and Christmas Stamp-a-Stack Class
• Sunday -  Christmas Stamp-a-Stack Class

What I am creating: Using my Christmas DSP scraps to finish making this year's Christmas cards. Been working on the same 8 cards for at least three days now. My time not holding a baby is severely limited recently.

My simple pleasures: Chocolate (any kind really) and the library

Looking around the house: Kinda trashed. Being sick does that to myself.

From the camera: Arthur giving Quentin a nose boop.

Life Right Now #33

Right now I am:  Prepping to head on over to Panera for coffee and cards.

On my bedside table: Still the same choices -- Let’s Explore Diabetes with Owls by David Sedaris; Five Days at Memorial by Sheri Fink

On my tv this week: Lots of Dirk Gently and Gilmore Girls.

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - BBQ Chicken, Cheddar, Bacon, Apple Paninis
• Tuesday - Pasta with Sardines
• Wednesday - Balsamic Pork Roast
• Thursday - Leftovers
• Friday - Sausage, Potato, Spinach Soup
• Saturday - Leftovers
• Sunday - Ham and Cheese Pretzel Sandwiches

On my to do list:

• Call post office for passport appointment -- I imagine I'll have to schedule one for January or February
• Finish filling out passport application forms for Q and A
• Call Apria so they can pick up the breast pump
• Plan to go get Q's birth certificate (maybe on Thursday?)
• Plan out Thanksgiving dinner
• Make Christmas lists
• Research headphones (for A and the twins)

Happening this week:

• Monday - Grocery (Sprouts and Target) and library visit
• Tuesday - Home day
• Wednesday - Christmas Card Buffet Class
• Thursday - Possibly the park or indoor play place
• Friday - Home day
• Saturday - Crop Day
• Sunday - Possibly OBM Meetup in San Francisco

What I am creating: Prepping card kits for my upcoming events (crop day, shoebox swap, Christmas stamp-a-stack class); Working on October's Project Life pages (hoping to be done by Thursday)

My simple pleasures: Chocolate cake with lemon frosting. Oh so yummy!

Looking around the house: There are stuffed animals everywhere... Arthur really needs to pick them up.

From the camera: Checking out the pond...

Life Right Now #32

On my bedside table: Let’s Explore Diabetes with Owls by David Sedaris; Five Days at Memorial by Sheri Fink

On my tv this week: So much fun! i've been watching The Great British Bake-Off and Gilmore Girls during lunch. J and I have been watching Dirk Gently, Full Frontal, and The Good Place.

Listening to: I was catching up on the One Bad Mother podcast this week. Somehow I got behind by a few episodes.

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Chicken Parmesan
• Tuesday - Potato Bacon Casserole
• Wednesday - Teriyaki Chicken; Crab Rangoon; Rice
• Thursday -  BBQ Cheddar Meatloaf
• Friday - Leftovers
• Saturday - Pasta with Sardines
• Sunday - Rustic Chicken Stew

On my to do list: A have a whole list of small tasks to take care of next week. Among those tasks is calling the breast pump company to have them pick it up, fill out the passport forms for A and Q, and finish a couple blog posts.

Happening this week:

• Monday - Oakland Zoo visit
• Tuesday - Probably cleaning day
• Wednesday - All Occasions Card Buffet class I teach
• Thursday - ?????
• Friday - Chabot Space and Science Center
• Saturday - Cookout at our house
• Sunday - ??????

What I am creating: I've been pulling out all my Christmas craft supplies and digging into using up a ton of supplies making greeting cards. Can't wait to start posting on the blog soon.

My simple pleasures: Loving chocolate chip cookies right now. Yeah. I've fallen into the dessert hole.

Looking around the house: I need to do a big kitchen clean tomorrow. It is a disaster zone...

From the camera: A look at my weekly planner spread in my Happy Planner. Been playing around with layouts and stickers.

Life Right Now #31

As I look outside my window: Dark clouds are rolling in. Another rainy day here in the Bay Area. Good thing I'm staying in doors today. Wouldn't want to drag the newborn out in this.

Right now I am: Holding an almost asleep baby, typing one-handed, drinking coffee, and chatting with the toddler.

On my bedside table: Same as last week -- Let’s Explore Diabetes with Owls by David Sedaris; Wild by Cheryl Strayed; Five Days at Memorial by Sheri Fink

On my tv this week: J and I started watched the new Dirk Gently series (definitely different than the Stephan Mangan version, but I like it), Zapped (crazy British sitcom), and The Good Place (has potential). I knocked out a few more Gilmore Girls and Penny Dreadful episodes. Arthur and I watched a few episodes of The Great British Bake-off Season 2 (missed this season).

Listening to: Not much, although the other day I did put on The Lumineers Pandora channel. I love the mix of softer indie rock for a quieter afternoon.

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Kale Caesar Pasta Salad
• Tuesday - Chicken Pot Pie
• Wednesday - Smothered Pork Chops
• Thursday - Santa Fe Chicken
• Friday - Leftovers
• Saturday - Grilled Cheese and Soup
• Sunday - Potato Bacon Casserole

On my to do list: I need to call the post office to inquire about a passport appointment. We moving forward getting myself and both boys passports. I also need to buy stamps for the birth announcements and pick up Q's birth certificate.

Happening this week: Very light week of activities

• Monday - Cleaning the house probably; Trick or Treating!
• Tuesday - Post Partum appointment; Board Meeting
• Wednesday - ???
• Thursday - ???
• Friday - ???
• Saturday - Card Classes
• Sunday - Baby sprinkle for two friends

What I am creating: Today I'm hosting crop day at my house. I'm hoping work finish my last three November design team cards and work on Q's Project Life album.

My simple pleasures: Cooler, rainy weather (I miss fall); more than 3 hours of sleep at a time; ability to read during nighttime feedings (yeah for the iPad)

Looking around the house: I cleaned the kitchen on Friday, but failed to tackle the living and playroom. Guess what I get to do tomorrow...

From the camera: Zoo train selfie!

Life Right Now #30

On my bedside table: Let's Explore Diabetes with Owls by David Sedaris; Wild by Cheryl Strayed; Five Days at Memorial by Sheri Fink

On my tv this week: We finished Daredevil S1 and finally started Jessica Jones. So intense, but really really good. I imagine we will speed through this one also. Plus we caught up with Last Week Tonight and Full Frontal.

Listening to: Random iTunes shuffle. Rediscovering some songs on my computer.

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Irish Whiskey Short Rib Stew
• Tuesday - Friend bringing food
• Wednesday - Kale Caesar Pasta Salad
• Thursday - Sausage and Apple Stuffed Acorn Squash
• Friday - Smothered Pork Chops
• Saturday - Santa Fe Chicken
• Sunday - Leftovers

On my to do list: I need to schedule a day to go get Q's birth certificate. I have to travel all the way up to Martinez so it will be a day trip. I also need to do a bunch of errands this week.

Happening this week:

• Monday - Grocery trip
• Tuesday - Trick or Treating at Santana Row
• Wednesday - Home day
• Thursday - Possibly trip to Martinez or Mel's Play Place
• Friday - Home day
• Saturday - Boo at the Oakland Zoo
• Sunday - Crop Day at our house

What I am creating: I'm hoping to knock out a few more November Design Team cards this week. My goal is three. We'll see if the baby cooperates and lets me have some crafting time.

My simple pleasures: Cooler but still sunny weather. Magazines from the library.

Looking around the house: I managed to vacuum the living room on Friday. Now I really need to focus on cleaning the playroom. It's a disaster!

From the camera: Someone didn't want to put on his costume for our fall social yesterday.

Life Right Now #29

As I look outside my window: Windy and rainy. The leftovers from that typhoon have been rolling through all weekend.

Right now I am: Feeding a tiny baby and begging the toddler to eat his breakfast. Typical morning.

On my bedside table:  Manners and Mutiny by Gail Carriger; Rat Queens Vol. 3; The Obituary Society's Last Stand by Jessica Randall

On my tv this week: J and I are alternating Shield and Daredevil. We finally restarted Daredevil so we can eventually catch up, but some times it's just too intense and we switch over to Shield. I've been slowly working my way through rewatching Gilmore Girls. Almost finished with season one.

Listening to: It's been a Hamilton kind of week.

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Frozen Chinese
• Tuesday - Friend bringing food
• Wednesday - BBQ Chicken
• Thursday - Friend bringing food
• Friday - Leftovers probably
• Saturday - Baked Ziti
• Sunday - Irish Whiskey Short Rib Stew

On my to do list: More rest; getting back on track with housework; finishing a book or two

Happening this week:

• Monday - Maybe a trip to the indoor play place
• Tuesday - Home day
• Wednesday - Friend is coming over for a playdate
• Thursday - Friend is coming over for a playdate; grocery run
• Friday - Home day
• Saturday - MVPA Fall Costume Social
• Sunday - Book Club

What I am creating: Working on catching up our Project Life albums. I haven't finished August or September yet. And I want to start Quentin's baby album. Thinking I will do his weekly for the first year and run it September-September to keep with the format of Arthur's albums.

My simple pleasures: Chocolate (just a bite or two each day); rainy cloudy days for snuggling and book reading; hazelnut coffee

Looking around the house: I need to restart my cleaning routine. We got off track due to baby coming, but it's been a few weeks. I need to get back in the swing of things.

From the camera: Got out the house this week and went to the library. Arthur picked out some good books.

Life Right Now #28

As I look outside my window: The tree on the side if the house has turned completely golden. I love fall.

Right now I am: Snuggling with a tiny baby. Love the snuggling stage.

Thinking and pondering: When will I be able to leave the house by myself? Really starting to go stir crazy in here...

On my bedside table: I have no idea what I'm going to read next. I still have over half of Voyager by Diana Gabaldon to finish. Plus I put multiple things on hold at the library. Guess it depends on how fast I finish Voyager and when those holds come up.

On my tv this week: J and I have been watching a few movies: Independence Day 2, Angry Birds, Captain America Civil War, and Ghostbusters. Out of those three, I'm going to say that Ghostbusters was my favorite. Also, we've caught up on Full Frontal and Last Week Tonight. And we've restarted watching Shield. We stalled in the middle of last season, but have started to catch back up.

Listening to: Momentary silence. We've been mostly homebound for the past two weeks while I recover from surgery. The situation has resulted in a stir-crazy toddler who's incapable of being quiet. Once he gets super loud, the baby starts making angry noises. But right this minute, all is quiet in my house. I'm going to enjoy it for a bit.

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Gouda Turkey and Artichoke Quesadillas with Black Bean and Salsa Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
• Tuesday - Friend is bringing us food
• Wednesday - Leftovers
• Thursday - Potato, Barley, and Ham Stew
• Friday - BBQ Chicken
• Saturday - Frozen Meal
• Sunday - Leftovers

On my to do list:  I've got a big list after taking a two week baby break

• Fix the front curtain (J's job)
• Finish assembling the stroller (J's job)
• Send cards
• Pic up pictures
• Library visit and find last two "missing" books
• Redo meal plan to account for leftovers and meal train
• Buy Halloween treats
• Work on Christmas card class
• Lay out PL spreads
• Finish at least one book
• Pick up and vacuum living room

Happening this week: Still recovering from surgery, so I'm not really scheduling anything or even driving yet. We do have Quentin's 2 week and Arthur's 3 year doctor's appointments on Tuesday morning. Very excited that I could schedule them back to back. Makes it a whole lot easier to take care of.

What I am creating: Working on nailing down Christmas card designs for my Christmas card buffet classes next month. So far, I have 3 out of 8 designs set. I need to choose and make the other 5. Plus, I'm trying to catch up with the Project Life albums.

My simple pleasures: Peanut butter filled pretzels. Oh man! I am addicted. A friend bought us a giant tub from Costco. I'm amazed we still have any left.

Looking around the house: Toys need to be picked up. The living room needs to be vacuumed. But otherwise, the house is in decent shape considering I haven't been able to do much housework.

From the camera: Arthur was talking to Quentin apparently. I intruded on their conversation to take a picture.

Life Right Now #27

Right now I am: Getting ready to head down to Mountain View for my baby sprinkle. So excited!

Thinking and pondering: What should Arthur and I do while J is gone for three weeks? Hoping to take Arthur to some fun activities before the baby comes in early October.

On my bedside table: Manners and Mutiny by Gail Carriger; Rat Queens Vol. 3

On my tv this week: I've been watching a ton of A Chef's Life and finishing the Great British Baking Show on PBS.

Listening to: Hamilton forever and always

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Texas Cheese Fries
• Tuesday - Balsamic Pork Roast, Mashed Potatoes, Veggie, Rolls
• Wednesday - Chicken n Noodles
• Thursday - Chili
• Friday - Leftovers
• Saturday - Pasta with Sardines
• Sunday - ??? (no idea, but maybe nachos)

On my to do list: I'm sure I have a list of things to do, and yet nothing is coming to mind right this second.

Happening this week: We're officially down to one car and J needs it most of the week. So I see lots of home days and maybe a visit to the pool this coming week.

• Monday - ???
• Tuesday - ???
• Wednesday - Park Playdate
• Thursday - ???
• Friday - ???
• Saturday - Crop day
• Sunday - Dropping J off at the airport; Book Club

What I am creating: Getting started on September's SSINK cards.

My simple pleasures: Grapefruit cups from Costco (so yummy and easy), iced tea (so refreshing), and baby kicks.

Looking around the house: Ugh. I really need to vacuum and do a big wipe down the of the kitchen and bathrooms.

From the camera: Apparently I didn't take a single photo this week. We've been crazy busy an Arthur's been sick. Oh well. Next week...

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.