Life Right Now #6

As I look outside my window: It's been a rainy and gray kind of week. While I've grown accustomed to the near-constant sunshine here in California, I really enjoyed the sound and feel of the rain this past week. It was a nice change.

Right now I am: Writing this post waiting for lunch monitoring the boys trying to give myself a few minutes to listen to a podcast and write this post. I'm definitely looking forward to tomorrow morning's book club. A few hours without kids, car time without anyone, and some good food.

On my bedside table: Demonglass and Spell Bound by Rachel Hawkins. I picked up the other two books in this trilogy to have a bit of a YA interlude to my reading. 

On my tv this week: The Magicians S3 -- very good! I can't wait to see what happens in the last few episodes of this season. 

Listening to: Not a lot. I did catch up on a few podcasts (NPR Politics, Pod Save America, The Simple Show, Hey Crafty Babes) that I've fallen behind on while at the retreat last weekend.

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - It's my birthday, so... I have no idea. I put a frozen meal on the meal plan, but I don't know what I'll end up doing.
• Tuesday - Sweet Potato Nachos
• Wednesday - Ham and Potato Soup
• Thursday - Leftovers
• Friday - Black Bean Chicken
• Saturday - Blackened Salmon
• Sunday - Hawaiian Pulled Pork Nachos 

On my to do list: I'm sure a lot of little things but I can't think of a single one right now... I think I need to do a task list check-in.

Happening this week: I'm going to try and document my 2018 Week in the Life this week, so lots of pictures will be taken and stories being notated.

• Monday - My birthday! Nothing planned so far.
• Tuesday - Picnic at Ardenwood Farm (they have baby goats!!!)
• Wednesday - Bay Area Discovery Museum
• Thursday - Errands Day
• Friday - Home day?
• Saturday - Stamp Club
• Sunday - ???

What I am creating: Trying to dive back into the Family Project Life album from 2017. I'm stuck in April, but have printed the photos for April - July. Just need to buckle down, do the journaling, and embellish a bit. I'm hoping to get at least April and May done with coming week. 

My simple pleasures: Hot tea, all the hot tea!

Looking around the house: Things are picked up pretty well, but that means I need to pick a room and do a deep clean. Oh joy.

From the camera: Picnic at the park before the big rains came...

Life Right Now #5

As I look outside my window: The sun is going down on a lovely Saturday.

Right now I am: Writing this post while watching The Avengers before eating leftover pizza for dinner. 

On my bedside table: The Gunslinger by Stephen King; Shades of Milk and Honey  by Mary Robinette Kowal; Ramses 2: The Passion of Cleopatra by Anne Rice

On my tv this week: Some episodes of The Librarians, Supernatural, and People of Earth. We also watched the new Murder on the Orient Express. I really liked it but can understand why some people did not.

Listening to: Lots of podcasts, like usual. I caught up with What Should I Read Next, Pod Save America, and Hey Crafty Babes. I also listened to a few back episodes of Lore. 

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Fettuccine Alfredo with Chicken, Broccoli, and Bacon
• Tuesday - Chicken Tortilla Soup
• Wednesday - Garlic Ranch Chicken Pizza
• Thursday - Out at the retreat
• Friday - Tacos at the retreat
• Saturday - Out at the retreat
• Sunday - Italian Beef Sandwiches

On my to do list: I am leaving on Thursday for a four day retreat. Hallelujah!!!! I still need to do a few things before leaving. I have to do the rest of the grocery shopping (we eat at the rental house for most meals), pick up a little surprise for our participants, pack, and prep some craft projects. 

Happening this week:

• Monday - Home day? 
• Tuesday - Playdate at Mel's Play Place
• Wednesday - Grocery shopping, library drop, bank run, surprise pick-up
• Thursday - Retreat day!!!!
• Friday - Retreat
• Saturday - Retreat
• Sunday - Retreat

What I am creating: On Saturday, I hosted crop day and knocked out a ton of little card kit projects. My unfinished box is a little lighter now. I also finally finished my December Daily pages. I'm taking a small bag of craft projects to the retreat. 

My simple pleasures: Hot tea, Chex mix, a firm pillow

Looking around the house: A mess as usual.

From the camera: Park time!

Life Right Now #4

Right now I am: Waiting for J to get home with sushi for dinner. I just didn't have it in me to cook tonight...

Thinking and pondering: What should I do during my retreat in two weeks? I might have a few hours to myself. I'm thinking a book, maybe a drive to the coast, maybe a little bookstore shopping, pie...

On my bedside table: The Gunslinger by Stephen King; As Bright as Heaven by Susan Meissner

On my tv this week: J and watched a few episodes of Supernatural, People of Earth, and The Good Place. Plus a couple of movies including Mr. Right (very entertaining).

Listening to: The boys and I listened to a couple new albums this week. We enjoyed the Black Panther Soundtrack, Dashboard Confessional, and Fall Out Boy. Quentin liked the Black Panther Soundtrack the best.

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Kielbasa Skillet
• Tuesday - Dinner at a friend's house
• Wednesday - Fish and Chips
• Thursday - Ham and Cheese; Grilled Cheese
• Friday - Garlic Shrimp Pasta
• Saturday - Chicken Cordon Bleu Dip
• Sunday - Blackened Salmon

On my to do list: I need to make scones and address Valentines today for tomorrow's exchange. I also have a few email check-ins for various projects. I'm sure there are some other small tasks to do.

Happening this week:

• Monday - Valentines Exchange at the park
• Tuesday - Dinner at a friends house to watch her appearance on Jeopardy!!!
• Wednesday - Oakland Zoo visit
• Thursday - TK Informational meeting; Craft class
• Friday - Playdate at our house; Craft class
• Saturday - Crop Day at our house
• Sunday - Lazy day?

What I am creating: I finally finished my 2017 Memory Planner so I can get started on 2018. I also want to complete a few random card kits (get them out of the way). And I might just start working on 2017's Project Life albums again.

My simple pleasures: I'm all about books this week. I've been enjoying a large stack of comics and a few novels.

Looking around the house: Everything looked decent yesterday morning and then the kids decided to change that. Oh man there is crap everywhere now...

From the camera: Best seat in the house!

Next up on the TBR pile:

Life Right Now #3

As I look outside my window: Dark, dark Saturday night...

Right now I am: Writing this post while the boys watch an episode of Pink Panther before bed.

On my bedside table: As Bright as Heaven by Susan Meissner; Hex Hall by Rachel Hawkins; A Toxic Trousseau

On my tv this week: A few movies, The Bachelor, The Good Place, People of Earth, and Happy

Listening to: The Head and the Heart; Cold War Kids; Fitz and the Tantrums

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Fish with Lemon Butter
• Tuesday - Honey and Jalapeño Chicken (new recipe)
• Wednesday - Leftovers
• Thursday - Baked Potato Soup
• Friday - Chicken Parmesan
• Saturday - Beef and Barley Stew
• Sunday - Blackened Salmon

On my to do list: Too many things to list right now... but I did do a brain dump last night so I'm headed in the right direction.

Happening this week:

• Monday - Dermatologist appointment
• Tuesday - Playdate at our house; DSP Class
• Wednesday - Birthday Cards Class
• Thursday - Bay Area Discovery Museum
• Friday - ???
• Saturday - A Friend's Baby Sprinkle
• Sunday - Card Classes

What I am creating: I finished up my cards for the Jan-March rotation of cards. Next up is name tags for retreat gifts. And then I'm thinking of attempting to tackle my 2017 Memory Planner and/or December Daily 2017.

My simple pleasures: Peanut butter, wrap sweaters, slippers, planner stickers

Looking around the house: We're in decent shape right now, although I do want to sweep and Swiffer the kitchen floor.

From the camera: Having fun coloring some mermaids for the upcoming retreat.

Next up on the TBR pile:

Life Right Now #2

As I look outside my window: Bright and sunny like normal

Right now I am: Relaxing for a few bit before doing some house chores

On my bedside table: Spellcasting in Silk by Juliet Blackwell; The English Wife by Lauren Willig

On my tv this week: The Good Place, Happy, Teachers, and a few movies (Blade Runner 2049 and Kong Skull Island)

Listening to: Almost caught up with the backlog of Reading Glasses podcasts. 

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Chili and Cornbread
• Tuesday - Black Bean Soup and Chicken Ranch Tacos
• Wednesday - Baked Potato Soup
• Thursday - Honey and Lime Jalapeño Chicken
• Friday - Beef and Barley Stew
• Saturday - Leftovers
• Sunday - Lemon Butter Caper Fish

On my to do list: I still need to make eye appointments and dentist appoints. I have my Warby Parker try-ons coming this week to potentially pick new frames. I also have some random tasks. 

Happening this week:

• Monday - Errand day; Card Class
• Tuesday - Home day; Card Class
• Wednesday - Seven Seas Playdate and Picnic
• Thursday - Home day?
• Friday - Chabot Space Center
• Saturday - ???
• Sunday - Book Club: The Light Between Oceans

What I am creating: I need to finish a few more cards for the upcoming Die Cuts and Happy Birthday cards class. 

My simple pleasures: Enjoying my pillow (so supportive!), good books, crafting days, goat cheese

Looking around the house:

From the camera: Friday night dinner - Apple Bacon Stuffed Sweet Potatoes, Salad, and Naan

Next up on the TBR pile:

Life Right Now #1

As I look outside my window: There's an interesting pattern of clouds in the sky.

Right now I am: Resting on the couch. We have all caught a stomach bug this weekend. No one is doing much at all.

On my bedside table: The Bostonians by Henry James; Arabian Nights

On my tv this week: Dirk Gently S2; The Good Place; Teachers

Listening to: Cold War Kids

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Broccoli Beef
• Tuesday - Leftovers
• Wednesday - Balsamic Glazed Pork Roast
• Thursday - Cajun Stuffed Chicken Breast
• Friday - Apple Bacon Sweet Potatoes
• Saturday - Cheesy Artichoke Pasta
• Sunday - Chili and Cornbread

On my to do list: I need to start tackling the items on my January goals list. The biggest items are making various appointments.

Happening this week:

• Monday - Home day to recover from sickness
• Tuesday - Oakland Zoo
• Wednesday - Grocery run
• Thursday - ???
• Friday - Hellyer Park playdate
• Saturday - Stamp Club
• Sunday - OBM Live in San Francisco!!!!

What I am creating: Lots of card using the new Occasions Catalog products

My simple pleasures: A healthy toddler (he was sick this weekend); chocolate cake; stocked grocery stores; moderate temperatures

Looking around the house: I need to do a a serious house clean, but seeing as I can't stand for more than 5 minutes right now, it's going to have to wait.

From the camera: Making a dinosaur model

Next up on the TBR pile:

Life Right Now #35

As I look outside my window: There's a fine dusting of snow on the ground. So pretty outside!

Right now I am: Relaxing and watching a movie with the boys. We're working on our Christmas movie list.

On my bedside table: The Light Between Oceans by M.L. Stedman

On my tv this week: Nothing much except for Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy.

Listening to: Lindsey Stirling and Leslie Odom Jr.'s Christmas albums. We're deep into the Christmas spirit here.

Happening this week: Not sure what we've got on tap for this week yet. I'm sure we will have a few activities, plus our advent Christmas activities. And then Sunday is Christmas Eve!

What I am creating: I'm finishing up my Occasions catalog swap cards. Almost done! After that, I want to start on the holiday albums.

My simple pleasures: Watching the snow falling.

Looking around the house: We're at my mom's house and it's currently a disaster. There are toys everywhere! We need to do a sweep clean.

From the camera: Q "shopping" in the living room. He's apparently picking up some sprinkles for cookies.

Next up on the TBR pile:

Life Right Now #34

As I look outside my window: So dark! 

Right now I am: Getting ready to eat dinner (eta 10 minutes) after packing our suitcase for Tuesday.

Thinking and pondering: What else do I need to pack for Indiana? I always feel like I'm forgetting something...

On my bedside table: Voyager by Diana Gabaldon (darn it, I'm going to finish this one before the end of the year)

On my tv this week: Stan Against Evil S2 (Oh so good!); People of Earth S1; Dirk Gently S2

Listening to: Baby Driver Soundtrack; Pod Save America podcast; Reading Glasses podcast

On the menu for this week: On Monday, we're having Spinach and Blue Cheese Stuffed Chicken. On Tuesday, we're flying to Indiana. No idea what we're eating the rest of the week.

On my to do list: Finish packing! Clean up the toys and random crap. Send out the rest of the Christmas cards. 

Happening this week:

• Monday - Oakland Zoo visit
• Tuesday - Plane day
• Wednesday - ???
• Thursday - ???
• Friday - ???
• Saturday - Santa Train Ride
• Sunday - ???

What I am creating: Nothing at the moment, although I am prepping my December Daily album and the supplies for my Holiday Albums. 

My simple pleasures: My new French Press is amazing. Such good coffee! 

Looking around the house: There is crap everywhere! Seriously, I need an afternoon to just pick everything up, but not sure if I'll get it before we leave. 

From the camera: Hello Q!

Next up on the TBR pile:

Life Right Now #33

As I look outside my window: Super dark. This getting dark at 5pm is really wearing on me... 

Right now I am: Catching up with Full Frontal. We were way behind. 

On my bedside table: Star of the Sea by Joseph O'Connor; A Vision in Velvet by Juliet Blackwell

On my tv this week: Full Frontal; Supernatural S3; Zapped; Grand Design S17

Listening to: Apple Radio's Latin Pop Channel -- Arthur and Q love to dance to it!

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Ham and Potato Soup
• Tuesday - Apple Cheddar Chicken
• Wednesday - Tilapia
• Thursday - Thanksgiving!!!
• Friday - Leftovers
• Saturday - Chicken Parmesan
• Sunday - Hawaiian Pulled Pork Nachoes

On my to do list: One big task to focus on this week... finish planning and executing Thanksgiving dinner! We're hosting a few friends on Thursday. Everyone is bringing something, but I still need to figure out what holes we have in the menu, buy groceries, and cook. 

Happening this week:

• Monday - Playdate at a friend's house
• Tuesday - Errand day
• Wednesday - Home day, Thanksgiving prep
• Thursday - Thanksgiving!
• Friday - Home day, virtual happy hour with my awesome OBMs
• Saturday - Christmas card class
• Sunday - ???

What I am creating: I'm putting the finishing touches on our advent calendar, our Thanksgiving place settings, and December stamp club projects. 

My simple pleasures: Being able to breathe. I have a cold right now and my nose is completely stuffed. I miss being able to breathe clearly again.

Looking around the house: Need to list out the areas that need to be cleaned before Thanksgiving. 

From the camera: Hello piggy!

Life Right Now #32

As I look outside my window: It's super dark out. Bed time almost...

Right now I am: Watching Star Trek: Discovery. There are moments that I really enjoy, but then others are just argh.

Thinking and pondering: What to put on my December TBR and movies list? Trying to start packing for Christmas trip to Indiana...

On my bedside table: Bonk by Mary Roach; Tarnished and Torn by Juliet Blackwell

On my tv this week: Star Trek: Discovery; Stranger Things S2

Listening to: Lots and lots of podcasts from this week. I listened to The Simple Show, Pod Save America, It's Been a Minute, Up First, and NPR Politics.

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Monterey Chicken
• Tuesday - Leftovers
• Wednesday - Pot Roast
• Thursday - Spaghetti
• Friday - Chicken Pad Thai Nachoes
• Saturday - Balsamic Pork Roast
• Sunday - Ham and Potato Soup

On my to do list: So many craft projects, so little time. I need to prioritize some of the projects. Also, I need to take care of some house chores and start to do a big destash of the house and specifically the craft room.

Happening this week:

• Monday - Home day
• Tuesday - Oakland Zoo
• Wednesday - Errand day: Target, Safeway, Sprouts
• Thursday - Thanksgiving Recipe Exchange
• Friday - ???
• Saturday - ???
• Sunday - Crop Day

What I am creating: Working on some random craft projects. Right now I'm trying to finish Christmas cards and some leftover card kits. 

My simple pleasures: Hot tea, good books, comfy bed, rainy nights

Looking around the house: I need to get started on a big house destash. There's just too much clutter around right now. I think I should start in the boys' room. 

From the camera: Argh! I haven't updated my photos for the entire week. Need to get on that.

Next up on the TBR pile:

Life Right Now #31

As I look outside my window: The sun is shining, the sky is clear, the leaves are different colors. Perfect fall day.

Right now I am: Finishing my breakfast of fried egg on avocado toast and coffee. I'm trying to eat a more filling breakfast instead of just a bagel.

Thinking and pondering: Which delayed craft project should I tackle first? So many to choose from.

On my bedside table: Bonk by Mary Roach; In a Witch's Wardrobe by Juliet Blackwell; The Custom of the Country by Edith Wharton

On my tv this week: We finished S2 of Supernatural, caught up on The Good Place S2, watched a few episodes of Full Frontal, and almost finished Stranger Things S2. 

Listening to: Lots of podcasts this week. I especially enjoyed The Guilty Feminist's "Weinstein Culture."

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Broccoli Beef
• Tuesday - Pesto Pasta
• Wednesday - Flank Steak with Salsa Verde
• Thursday - Sun Dried Tomato Chicken 
• Friday - Leftovers
• Saturday - Spaghetti
• Sunday - Pot Roast

On my to do list: I need to reorganize my craft area (it's a crazy mess after Christmas card making). I also need to do some more cleaning of the house, especially the living room. I got about halfway through the boys's toys cleanout last week. Need to finish that off. And tons of little tasks here and there.

Happening t his week:

• Monday - Errand day?
• Tuesday - Home day probably
• Wednesday - Seven Seas Park Playdate
• Thursday - Library and Mel's
• Friday - Home day
• Saturday - Stamp Club
• Sunday - Book Club: The Ocean at the End of the Lane

What I am creating: I only have one of four stamp club projects finished for Saturday's meeting. I know at least one more design I'm going to make, just need to collect the kits. And I want to make a non-Christmas card but haven't decided on the stamp set. Plus the 3D project.

My simple pleasures: Apple cider and bourbon, caramel apple hot tea, pumpkin bread. Still in fall mode over here!

Looking around the house: Kitchen and dining are in great shape. Just need to concentrate on the living and play room.

From the camera: From the little trick or treater!

Next up on the TBR pile:

Life Right Now #30

Right now I am: Finally watching S2 of Stranger Things!

Thinking and pondering: What other activites did we want to accomplish before Christmas? Making a list and checking it twice!

On my bedside table: the Ocean at the End of the Lane by Neil Gaiman; Hexes and Hemlines by Juliet Blackwell

On my tv this week: Some old episodes of Q.I. and The Great British Bake-Off. Arthur and I finally finished watching Avatar. Kinda lackluster finale, but still good. We also watched a few movies this week.

Listening to: Of Monsters and Men, Nina Simone, Hamilton Cast Recording, Bastille

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Chicken n Dumplings
• Tuesday - I have no idea... 
• Wednesday - Sloppy Joes
• Thursday - Kale and White Bean Soup
• Friday - Pot Roast
• Saturday - Monterrey Chicken
• Sunday - Lefftovers

On my to do list: I have a ton of cleaning to do this week plus getting through Halloween and moving on to Thanksgiving projects. I should also do a clothing sort for the boys (and myself) and create a clothing needs lists for winter and Christmas.

Happening this week:

• Monday - Probably errands
• Tuesday - Nothing during the day, but at night... Halloween!
• Wednesday - Lindsay Wildlife Experience
• Thursday - Grocery store, Target, Sprouts
• Friday - Half Moon Bay Beach Day
• Saturday - Christmas Card Classes Day
• Sunday - ???

What I am creating: I'm finishing up my 30 Days of Christmas Cards from Sketches. This will be appearing on the craft blog throughout the month of November. I also started pulling supplies for this year's December Daily kits.

My simple pleasures: Cooler temperatures, a mug of hot tea, a good book.

Looking around the house: There are cheerios absolutely everywhere in the living room...

From the camera: Admiring the view at the zoo

Next up on the TBR pile:

Life Right Now #29

As I look outside my window: It's so dark outside... 

Right now I am: Relaxing a bit after the big parent group Halloween party. Lots of fun, but man, lots of work.

Thinking and pondering: What do I need to do next? So many things on my big to-do list, but I need to do some prioritizing.

On my bedside table: A Cast Off Coven by Juliet Blackwell; The Devil in the Shape of a Woman by Carol Karlsen

On my tv this week: I watched a few more episodes of Reign S4 -- getting super close to finishing the series. J and I watched both versions of The Haunting for comparison. 

Listening to: Not much really. I did listen to a few episodes of m y podcasts, but not that many.

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Peanut Chicken Bowls
• Tuesday - Prosciutto and Fig Pizza
• Wednesday - Spinach and Artichoke Melts
• Thursday - Leftovers
• Friday - Waffle Crab Cakes
• Saturday - Chicken and Dumblings
• Sunday - Smoke Sausage

On my to do list: After being sick last week, I need to catch up on a variety of chores and little tasks.

Happening this week:

• Monday - Errand day
• Tuesday - Santana Row Trick-or-Treating
• Wednesday - Pumpkin Patch?
• Thursday - Children's Creativity Museum
• Friday - Probably a doctor visit for vaccinations
• Saturday - Boo at the Oakland Zoo
• Sunday - Friend's birthday party

What I am creating: Working on more Christmas cards. 

My simple pleasures: Wacky cake and sleep

Looking around the house: Lots of house chores to be finished.

From the camera: Our first Halloween event of the season.

Life Right Now #28

As I look outside my window: Sun is shining, the leaves are a fun mix of colors even here in the relatively season-less Bay Area.

Right now I am: Attempting to blog while Quentin climbs all over me... it's a challenge. 

Thinking and pondering: What activities/projects do I need to prioritize next? There's always something coming up, just ned to decide on an order that makes sense.

On my bedside table: Hidden Figures by Margot Lee Shetterly; The Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson

On my tv this week: J and I watched a few movies (Why Him?; The Little Hours; Spiderman Homecoming). Arthur and I watched a few episodes of Avatar. We only have four episodes left in the series!

Listening to: Yesterday's pirate music mix J created. I was really getting into the pirate shanties. And it even included all the songs from The Pirates of Penzance.

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Southwest Beef and Cabbage
• Tuesday - Chicken Tortilla Soup
• Wednesday - Lemon and Caper Fish
• Thursday - Beef Stew; Rosemary Flat Bread
• Friday - Leftovers
• Saturday - Coffee Rubbed Pork Loin
• Sunday - Meatball Sliders

On my to do list: I need to buy some plane tickets, make eye appointments, finish cleaning from the party, redo our big to do lists (birthday party was a big event cluttering my list), do a playroom cleanout (thinking of getting rid of the baby toys), schedule retreat info meetings, craft a ton, and read!

Happening this week:

• Monday - Errand day
• Tuesday - Oakland Zoo!
• Wednesday - Pumpkin patch?
• Thursday - Arthur's doctor appointment
• Friday - Probably a home day
• Saturday - Stamp Club
• Sunday - Train ride for Arthur's actual birthday

What I am creating: Now that the birthday party is over, I need to focus on creating Christmas cards for my Christmas card classes and personal use.

My simple pleasures: Rum punch and cupcakes!

Looking around the house: The kitchen needs a good wipe down after yesterday's big birthday party and the playroom is a disaster. No huge tasks, but i would like to get to them today.

From the camera:

Next up on the TBR pile:

Life Right Now #27

As I look outside my window: The sun is setting on this Saturday night...

Right now I am: Enjoying a bit of quiet before the craziness of bedtime.

On my bedside table: The Last Stand by Nathaniel Philbrick; Ash and Quill by Rachel Caine

On my tv this week: J and I were super excited to start S2 of The Good Place. Can't wait to see where this goes... We also watched a few movies (The Island of Lost Souls; Sausage Party; The Lost City of Z).

Listening to: Andrew Bird's Are You Serious. I'm loving the eclectic sound of this album and his song with Fiona Apple is just amazing!

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Garlic Shrimp Pasta
• Tuesday - Chili and Cornbread
• Wednesday - Chicken Ranch Tacos; Black Bean Soup
• Thursday - Leftovers
• Friday - Ravioli
• Saturday - Beef Tips
• Sunday - Appetizer Night

On my to do list: I have some random bigger tasks to make sure and take care of this week including making eye appointments and buying plane tickets for Christmas. I also have a few lingering tasks to prep for the birthday party (making shark fins, picking up chocolate coins, etc). 

Happening this week:

• Monday - Errand day (this is becoming the routine)
• Tuesday - Quentin's 1st birthday!!!! We're celebrating by having cupcakes at our park playdate.
• Wednesday - Home day probably
• Thursday - Q's doctor appointment
• Friday - Visit to Deer Hollow Farm at Rancho San Antonio
• Saturday - Arthur's friend's birthday party
• Sunday - Probably another home day

What I am creating: With the completion of these three birthday cards, I am ready to dive into Christmas card making. I'm doing 30 Days of Christmas Cards from Sketches in November on my blog, so I need to start now! I'm starting with the new stamp sets, creating cards for my Christmas card classes and stamp club. And then I'll dive into the older supplies and scraps of paper to make some of the sketches. Super excited!

My simple pleasures: Good movies, break-n-bake cookies (for those lazy nights), snuggling under the covers, pretty cookbooks, chai tea

Looking around the house: The downstairs is fairly clean, but the upstairs is a bit of a mess. And the big birthday party is coming soon! I need to make a master to clean list to make sure I work it all in. 

From the camera: Saturday morning shenanigans

Next up on the TBR pile:

Life Right Now #26

As I look outside my window: It's dark this Saturday night. 

Right now I am: Watching the last episode of Ken Burns's The National Parks with J. I've really enjoyed this series. Even with the struggles and turmoil, I found the series to be very calming and up-lifting. Now we need to plan some trips to some of the nearby national parks. 

Thinking and pondering: Christmas card designs. I usually start making my cards in September or October. It's been on my mind lately, but I need to finish my Halloween and Thanksgiving cards firsts.

On my bedside table: The Lost City of Z by David Grann; The Last Stand by Nathaniel Philbrick; The Custom of the Country by Edith Wharton

On my tv this week: Ken Burns's The National Parks (we finished Saturday night!), Supernatural S2, and a few movies.

Listening to: Lots of political podcasts including Pod Save America's interview with Hillary Clinton. Fascinating!

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Tilapia
• Tuesday - Buffalo Chicken Nachoes
• Wednesday - Broccoli Beef
• Thursday - Apple Bacon Stuffed Sweet Potatos
• Friday - Leftovers
• Saturday - Cajun Stuffed Chicken
• Sunday - Appetizer night

On my to do list: I still need to buy plane tickets, make eye appointments, and finish some craft projects.

Happening this week:

• Monday - Errand day (Safeway, Target, Sprouts)
• Tuesday - Possible pool party here
• Wednesday - Playdate at our house
• Thursday - ???
• Friday - ???
• Saturday - Coffee and Cards Craft Event
• Sunday - Book Club (Fates and Furies)

What I am creating: I'm finishing up the birthday party crafts this week. I need to complete the big letters and a few signs. After that, I want to finish out my Halloween and Thanksgiving cards. I also have a few random card ideas rolling around my head right now. I'm thinking about using up a few scrap pieces I have laying around.

My simple pleasures: Reese's Peanut Butter Cup cookies; Tazo Passion tea concentrate (keeps me away from Starbucks); Open windows allowing the breeze and nature sounds inside

Looking around the house: Decent shape around here although I really need to move out the baby stuff. I was hoping someone in my parent group would want some stuff, but no such luck yet.

From the camera: Arthur and Quentin at the zoo on Tuesday. 

Next up on the TBR pile:

Life Right Now #25

As I look outside my window: The sun is setting on this Saturday...

Right now I am: Relaxing on the couch with a glass of Gunlach Bunschu's Gewurtztraminer. Oh so yummy! Perfect for a late summer day. 

Thinking and pondering: Which craft project should I start next? I have some autumn and Halloween cards, birthday party crafts, and Christmas cards all on the brain. I should knock out the birthday party crafts first seeing as the party is on Oct. 7th. 

On my bedside table: Paper and Fire by Rachel Caine; The Last Stand by Nathaniel Philbrick

On my tv this week: J and I watched a few episodes of Supernatural S2. I also got back into S4 of Reign. I have about 8 episodes left in the series. And I started rewatching The Great British Bake-Off S4. 

Listening to: Lots more podcasts. 

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Munchery (probably the tuna dish, can't remember the exact recipe)
• Tuesday - Ranch Cheddar Chicken
• Wednesday - Black Bean Soup
• Thursday - Leftovers
• Friday - Tilapia 
• Saturday - Spicy Thai Noodles
• Sunday - Pizza Day (Craft Crop Day)

On my to do list: Some random weird tasks on my list such as make eye appointments for myself and Arthur, fix the library books (which ones go back soon, which ones to renew, which ones to read now), start the birthday party goody bags, and schedule my October and November craft classes. 

Happening this week:

• Monday - Errand day
• Tuesday - Oakland Zoo!
• Wednesday - Home day?
• Thursday - Children's Creativity Museum in San Francisco
• Friday - ???
• Saturday - ???
• Sunday - Craft Crop Day

What I am creating: Crazy last minute, I finished our stamp club projects for yesterday... 

My simple pleasures: A good bottle of wine, slightly cooler temperatures, checking items off my to-do list

Looking around the house: Oh! The living room is constantly in a state of disorder. Some days I just want to burn it all down!

From the camera: My two littles at the beach this past week... (Photos curtesy of my friend Amanda)

Next up on the TBR pile:

Life Right Now #24

As I look outside my window: The last of the sun's rays are sinking below the hills. I love this time of day...

Right now I am: J and I are watching the ridiculous that is xXX: Return of Xander Cage. Haha! Some nights was just want a ridiculous movie.

Thinking and pondering: What dates will give me the best deal for Christmas-time plane tickets?  We really should buy them soon...

On my bedside table: Fates and Furies by Lauren Groff (October book club selection), The Wicked + The Divine Vol. 5, The Last Stand by Nathaniel Philbrick

On my tv this week: A decent amount of old episodes of Q.I., the end of S1 of Supernatural, and the start of S2 of Supernatural.

Listening to: Lots of politics themed podcasts including NPR Politics, It's Been a Minute, and Pod Save America.

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Leftovers
• Tuesday - Bacon and Egg Hash with Scones
• Wednesday - Savory Chicken and Veggies
• Thursday - Sesame Chicken
• Friday - Smothered Pork Chops
• Saturday - Avocado, Bruschetta Chicken
• Sunday - Mexican Street Corn Soup

On my to do list: I'm so close to finishing my blog fix, I only have 2 months to go. Hoping to get this done this week. I also have some random tasks like making eye appointments for myself and Arthur. Plus I need to start buying supplies for the birthday party.

Happening this week:

• Monday - Errand day
• Tuesday - Possibly a park?
• Wednesday - Children's Discovery Museum
• Thursday - Bay Area Discovery Museum
• Friday - Home Day
• Saturday - Arthur's friend's birthday party; SU Bingo party
• Sunday - ??? 

What I am creating: Working on my 30 Days of Lists cards. I'm also finalizing my designs for the Bingo make n takes.

My simple pleasures: Tea with lemon and honey to soothe a sore throat,

Looking around the house: I cleaned up the living room and vacuum yesterday and yet it looks atrocious again...

From the camera: Sick all week. Very few pictures to hightlight.

Next up on the TBR pile:

Life Right Now #23

Right now I am: Listening to J sharpen our knives. They needed a good sharpening, but my goodness I hate that sound!

Thinking and pondering: What should we eat next week? It's the constant question in my mind...

On my bedside table: Fates and Furies by Lauren Groff; Simply Love by Mary Balogh

On my tv this week: We caught up with Last Week Tonight, started Ken Burns's The National Parks, and watched a few movies.

Listening to: I've been catching all the podcasts dealing with Charlottesville and the aftermath. Pod Save America's one was good, but I really enjoyed Sam Sanders on It's Been a Minute. Very interesting dissection of the events and what people should be doing.

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Sweet Potato Nachoes
• Tuesday - Fish and Chips
• Wednesday - Lemony Goat Cheese Pasta 
• Thursday - ???
• Friday - ???
• Saturday - ???
• Sunday - ???

On my to do list: Some craft projects, more blog fixing, making eye appointments, creating shopping lists for the upcoming birthday party and Halloween, plus some other small tasks.

Happening this week:

• Monday - Errands probably
• Tuesday - No idea
• Wednesday - Bay Area Discovery Museum
• Thursday - Die Cuts Class
• Friday - ???
• Saturday - Hoping to get to a craft sale
• Sunday - Book Club

What I am creating: I'm prepping for September's 30 Days of Lists, Fall Bingo Party, and Holiday Catalog Classes.

My simple pleasures: Wacky cake, silence, snuggling up in blankets

Looking around the house: Eh. We're good I think...

From the camera: Play time!

Next up on the TBR pile:

Life Right Now #22

As I look outside my window: The sun is coming up over the hill. Loving the light this morning.

Right now I am: Enjoying my coffee attempting to plan our activities today.

On my bedside table: Ink and Bone by Rachel Caine (random library pick); Fates and Furies by Lauren Groff

On my tv this week: More Supernatural S1 for J and I. I finished Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell and it was great. We also watched a few movies throughout the week. 

Listening to: Lots of podcasts including Sorta Awesome, NPR Politics, NPR Up First, and NPR It's Been a Minute.

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken
• Tuesday -  Leftovers
• Wednesday - Fish and Chips
• Thursday - Sweet Potato Nachoes
• Friday - Tacos
• Saturday - Pizza Day
• Sunday - Cookout

On my to do list: Plugging away at my ridiculously long to do list. I really want to knock off a few more months of my blog fix this coming week.

Happening this week:

• Monday - Nothing right now
• Tuesday - Maybe a family activity
• Wednesday - OBM Playdate at our house
• Thursday - Chabot Space and Science Center
• Friday - Pool Party
• Saturday - Stamp Club
• Sunday - Cookout

What I am creating: I still need to finish the rest of stamp club's projects before Saturday. I also want to work on July's memory planner pages.

My simple pleasures: Pie, corn on the cob, iced tea, coffee -- yeah I've really got food on the brain right now.

Looking around the house: After a big clean on Friday, the house is looking pretty good. Time for maintenance. 

From the camera: Arthur's new game is fighting tiger attack. Q loves loves loves it!

Next up on the TBR pile: