Life Right Now #15

As I look outside my window: A little overcast out there, but I'm sure the sun will come out later.

Right now I am: Eating breakfast (BLT and a grapefruit, weird breakfast, but tasty) before the kiddos demand attention. 

On my bedside table: Rest of The White Rabbit Chronicles by Gena Showalter -- my current YA guilty pleasure.

On my tv this week: We've been watching a lot of Supernatural (almost finished with S4!), but last night we finally watched Mad Max: Fury Road.

Listening to: Catching up with a few podcasts (Hey Crafty Babes, OBM, Reading Glasses) and, of course, Black Veil Brides.

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Leftovers
• Tuesday - Chili and Cornbread
• Wednesday - Cheesy Artichoke Pasta
• Thursday - Popcorn Shrimp
• Friday - Chicken Parmesan
• Saturday - Leftovers
• Sunday - Mongolian Beef and Rice

On my to do list: Purge downstairs closet, buy plane tickets, renew Costco, send cards, decide May's Club order, make a few craft projects. I'm sure there's more...

Happening this week:

• Monday - Home day
• Tuesday - Oakland Zoo
• Wednesday - Errands
• Thursday - Beach Day!
• Friday - Home day?
• Saturday - Stamp Club
• Sunday - ???

What I am creating: I'm attempting to finish off my retiring stamp sets cards so I can get to the new goodies coming Tuesday. Plus, I'm working on April's Memory Planner and hoping to do some catch up with Arthur's 2017 PL album.

My simple pleasures: Bacon, Raspberry Vodka and Sparkling Lemonade, a good fantasy series, new SU catalog

Looking around the house: Decent shape although I really need to tackle that downstairs closet. Plus, I should vacuum and sweep tomorrow. 

From the camera: Laughing at the goats. 

Life Right Now #14

As I look outside my window: Sunny day with a few big white fluffy clouds...

Right now I am: Waiting for J to get back from the grocery store. I would have gone myself, but I'm recovering from the effects of something last night. We suspect food poisoning. 

On my bedside table: Circe by Madeleine Miller (BOTM selection for April), Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery

On my tv this week: We finished The Shannara Chronicles and were overall happy with the show. I just could have done without the last 30 seconds... 

Listening to: Au/Ra's "Panic Room" on repeat. So atmospheric! Also Larkin Poe and The Pretty Reckless.

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Caribbean Salmon Quinoa Bowls
• Tuesday - Leftovers
• Wednesday - Broccoli Beef
• Thursday - Spaghetti
• Friday - Avocado, Bruschetta Chicken
• Saturday - Appetizer Night
• Sunday - Chili

On my to do list: I need to lock down summer travel dates (and possibly buy plane tickets). I also have some other random tasks including buying a birthday presents (for Saturday's party), buying Warped Tour tickets (for June 23rd), deciding on my preorder for Stampin' Up!, send out a couple of reminder emails, update the calendars, get some info from the twins, meal plan/grocery shop, and a few others I am sure. I do have a big brain dump list. I should double check that and pull a few tasks for this week.

Happening this week:

• Monday - Errands probably
• Tuesday - Happy Hollow visit
• Wednesday - Bay Area Discovery Museum (free First Wednesday!)
• Thursday - Playdate at a friend's house; grocery
• Friday - Home day probably
• Saturday - Arthur's friend's birthday party
• Sunday - Big Bounce Adventure with Arthur!

What I am creating: I'm taking a small break from card making to knock out a few Project Life weekly spreads. I finished the first 5 weeks of 2018 this past week. Hoping to get the next 5 weeks done this coming week before my Stampin' Up! preorder arrives.

My simple pleasures: A good short story collection, bit of crafting time, listening to the waves off the Bay, a good cup of coffee

Looking around the house: Ugh. The toys... 

From the camera: We had to scrap our beach day (way too cold out there), but we did get in a little time by the water at Coyote Pointe.

Life Right Now #13

As I look outside my window: The sun is setting on a gorgeous day even though I never actually went outside.

Right now I am: Fighting the cold that I think J gave me. 

On my bedside table: Parasite by Mira Grant, Jennifer Government by Max Barry

On my tv this week: We've been watching a ton of Supernatural S4. 

Listening to: Not much this week. I did listen to a couple of podcasts, but not much.

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Salsa Chicken
• Tuesday - Fig and Prosciutto Pizza
• Wednesday - Leftovers
• Thursday - Lemon Chicken Thighs
• Friday - Cajun Chicken and Sausage Alfredo Pasta
• Saturday - Bacon, Cheese, and Peach Paninis
• Sunday - Caribbean Salmon Quinoa Bowls

On my to do list: I need to make a service appointment for the van (routine oil change and safety recall [nothing too serious]). I also need to figure out dates for summer and J needs to figure out dates for his work trip. And the downstairs closet still needs to be cleaned out.  

Happening this week:

• Monday - Errand Day
• Tuesday - Safari Run visit
• Wednesday - Grocery, Library, etc
• Thursday - Half Moon Bay Beach Day
• Friday - Oakland Zoo visit
• Saturday - Home day
• Sunday - book Club

What I am creating: I have been on a huge card making kick this past week. I started cleaning out my retiring DSP and stamp sets. I figure I will keep chugging away until I run out of creative juices and then switch over to Project Life and Memory Planner pages. 

My simple pleasures: Chocolate Peanut Butter Mug Cakes, white wine, good books, my Mary Poppins-like tote bag

Looking around the house: Toys are everywhere, but that's normal. 

From the camera: The boys building at the Chabot Space and Science Center.

Life Right Now #12

As I look outside my window: A bit overcast and rainy looking...

Right now I am: Prepping for our cookout today. I'm making Greek Pasta Salad, Peach Arnold Palmers, Queso, and Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Bars. J is taking care of the brats and hot dogs and Mac n cheese (for the kiddos). Others are bringing various things.

On my bedside table: The Radium Girls by Kate Moore (April's book club selection); Alice in Zombieland by Gena Showalter

On my tv this week: We finished Veep S6 and realized that they are planning on making a seventh season. Yeah! We also caught up with Superstore and watched a few episodes of Full Frontal and Shannara. 

Listening to: So much Black Veil Brides. Seriously Arthur is obsessed and constantly asked for them. I can definitely get behind this. He even sings along in the car. 

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Sloppy Joes
• Tuesday - Salsa Chicken
• Wednesday - Sausage, Potato, Kale Soup
• Thursday - Spinach and Blue Cheese Stuffed Chicken
• Friday - Leftovers
• Saturday - Lemon Chicken Thighs
• Sunday - Spaghetti

On my to do list: I imagine a lot of little things. I completely forget to look at my big list... 

Happening this week:

• Monday - Hop n Play visit (indoor play place)
• Tuesday - Seven Seas Park playdate and picnic; Quick and Easy Cards Class
• Wednesday - Home day?; DSP Cards Class
• Thursday - Errands probably; library visit
• Friday - Chabot Space and Science Center
• Saturday - Crop Day
• Sunday - Nothing so far

What I am creating: Tons of cards before some of these sets retire at the end of May. 

My simple pleasures: A bit of crafting time is glorious right now

From the camera: Boys on a carousel!

Life Right Now #11

As I look outside my window: It's so dark... but we had a beautiful sunny day once the rain moved out.

Right now I am: Finally starting the last season of Veep. Somehow it got lost in the television shuffle. 

On my bedside table: The Drawing of the Three by Stephen King; Alice in Zombieland by Gena Showalter

On my tv this week: We finished S3 of The Magicians. Such a great season! We also started Veep S6 and Shannara Chronicles S2. 

Listening to: Lots of Black Veil Brides

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Leftovers
• Tuesday - Smothered Pork Chops
• Wednesday - Salsa Chicken
• Thursday - Fresh Tomato Sauce Spaghetti
• Friday - Spinach and Blue Cheese Stuffed Chicken
• Saturday - Lemon Chicken Thighs with Potatoes
• Sunday - Sloppy Joes

On my to do list: I'm certain that I have things on my to-do list, but I cannot remember what they are right now. I must do a check-in today.

Happening this week:

• Monday - Errand Day; DSP Class
• Tuesday - Oakland Zoo (hoping the rain holds off); Coloring Class
• Wednesday - Kid Trade with a friend
• Thursday - Home day
• Friday - Hellyer Park Playdate
• Saturday - Stamp Club
• Sunday - Cookout

What I am creating: I've been working on Project Life spreads and Memory Planner pages. I finished the 2017 family album. Woot!!! Now I can start tackling my 2018 album. I still need to finish Q and A's 2017 albums. 

My simple pleasures: Wacky cake, fluffy books, time for crafting

Looking around the house: Because of bingo, my kitchen and dining room are clean. I need to do a. pick-up of the living room and playroom.

From the camera: My little builders at Bay Area Discovery Museum

Life Right Now #10

As I look outside my window: The sun is starting to set and the breeze has picked up a bit. Thank goodness as it was getting a bit warm in the house. 

Right now I am: Being forced to watch a very weird very 80s movie by J. Not sure why I agree to things like this. 

On my bedside table: Dead Bolt by Juliet Blackwell; Jennifer Government by Max Barry

On my tv this week: We catch up with The Magicians (oh my, so good!), finished Happy, and started The Shanaara Chronicles S2.

Listening to: Lots of Black Veil Brides this past week. Q really enjoys them. I finally got a video of Q dancing to them. 

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Black Bean Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
• Tuesday - Ranch Cheddar Chicken
• Wednesday - Veggie Beef Soup
• Thursday - Leftovers
• Friday - Pot Roast
• Saturday - Sesame Chicken
• Sunday - Texas Cheese Fries

On my to do list: Hmmm... I have no idea. Guess I need to do a brain dump today and figure out my list.

Happening this week:

• Monday - Errand day
• Tuesday - Happy Hollow
• Wednesday - BADM
• Thursday - Home Day; Coloring Class
• Friday - Park time; Quick and Easy Class
• Saturday - Spring Bingo
• Sunday - Home Day

What I am creating: I'm working through the rest of our family Project Life album for 2017. I only have a few months left to do. I'm also planning on starting my March Memory Planner pages. 

My simple pleasures: Lots of hot tea, good music, podcasts, good TV shows.

Looking around the house: Looks like it's about time to vacuum again. 

From the camera: Flowers at the park

Life Right Now #9

As I look outside my window: It's overcast again. The rain seems be coming in a wave every couple of days this month. After a very warm and dry February, it's nice to see the hills so green for a time.

Right now I am: Curled up on the couch watching a very weird movie...

On my bedside table: Glamour in Glass by Mary Robinette Kowal; Revival Vol. 8

On my tv this week: We finished Happy S1 -- man that show as very violent and weird, but interesting. We also caught up with The Magicians S3, Another Period, and Superstore. Plus, we continued watching The Roosevelts. We're up to FDR getting elected President. 

Listening to: Basically just podcasts this week plus a little bit of the Singer-Songwriter radio channel on Apple Music. 

On the menu for this week: Last week's menu keep changing, so this week is all the leftover recipes from last week.

• Monday - Spicy Thai Noodles
• Tuesday - Leftovers
• Wednesday - Kale Caesar Pasta Salad
• Thursday - Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken
• Friday - Peanut Sauce Chicken and Broccoli
• Saturday - Pasta with Fresh Tomato Sauce
• Sunday - Veggie Beef Soup

On my to do list: I still need to take care of Arthur's TK appointment. And I have a ton of little tiny errands and tasks to take care of. The usual.

Happening this week:

• Monday - Easter Egg Hunt at Mel's Play Place
• Tuesday - Errands, grocery
• Wednesday - Jelly Belly Factory visit; Quick and Easy Class
• Thursday - Home day?; DSP Class
• Friday - Quentin's 18 month doctor appointment
• Saturday - Playdate at our house
• Sunday - Home day

What I am creating: I finally finished my Week in the Life album, which means I can turn to my next unfinished project, my family 2017 Project Life album. I'm currently up to June. I'm hoping to knock out June and July this week. If I get those done, I can start working on the Spring Bingo make n takes and thank you cards, plus the rest of the April SSINK cards. 

My simple pleasures: Chocolate cake, comfy sweaters, sunshine, a nice walk

Looking around the house: Toys are everywhere!

From the camera: Hello otter! At the Oakland Zoo.

Life Right Now #8

As I look outside my window: The rain is moving out for at least a few days. Enjoying the sunshine today.

On my bedside table: Cranford by Elizabeth Gaskell; The Philosopher's Flight by Tom Miller (BOTM February)

On my tv this week: J and I watched a few movies including The Mummy and Star Wars: The Last Jedi. So one very boring movie and one very good entertaining movie. 

Listening to: Just lots of podcasts. We haven't been in the car a lot this past week, so no really music listening. Instead, I've been listening to podcasts while the kids play/I cook/Q sometimes naps. 

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Soup
• Tuesday - Kale Caesar Pasta Salad
• Wednesday - Honey Glazed Salmon
• Thursday - Sweet Potato Nachos
• Friday - Leftovers
• Saturday - Spicy Thai Noodles
• Sunday - Irish Whisky Stew

On my to do list: I have some school paper work to take care of, books to read (library due dates coming up soon), friends to check in with, a Costco membership to renew or cancel, books to sell at Half Price Books, and a ton of blog tasks. Next week is Bloggiesta and I have some behind the scenes things to fix on my blog. 

Happening this week:

• Monday - Home day/possible park day if the rain holds out
• Tuesday - Habitot Visit with BART ride (Arthur's super excited as he hasn't ridden the BART in months)
• Wednesday - Errand Day
• Thursday - Playdate at our house
• Friday - ???
• Saturday - Nothing
• Sunday - Book Club

What I am creating: I've been working on my 30 Days of Lists cards, Memory Planner pages for February, and my Week in the Life album. Hoping to finish at least the MP pages and WITL album this week. Also want to get to the April Project Life pages (from 2017).

My simple pleasures: Break n Bake Chocolate Chip Cookies; Peach Ginger Black Tea; the sound of the rain at night; sunny days; library holds list; my pretty planner

Looking around the house: I've been doing weird house projects all last week (cleaning above the fireplace [it's a weird cubby area that became a junk area], tagging the wine). I'm sure I'll find more weird projects for this coming week. I have my eye on doing a closet cleanup (for me), redoing the boys' closet, and cleaning out the hall closet. Guess it's going to be closet week around here.

From the camera: Someone finally figured out how to get in and out of the cars at the play place. 

Life Right Now #7

As I look outside my window: Slightly overcast when the sun setting.

Right now I am: Waiting for bedtime for the kiddos... They're watching Star Wars Rebels before we do books and tuck-in.

On my bedside table: Darkfever by Karen Marie Moning; The Birth of Venus by Sarah Dunant

On my tv this week: J and I have watched a few movies and restarted Ken Burns's The Roosevelts. Only like 5 more hours to go for that specific documentary. 

Listening to: Attempting to catch up with a few more of my podcasts. Currently focusing on back episodes of Lore.

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Crock pot black bean chicken with tortilla chips
• Tuesday - Honey Lime Tilapia
• Wednesday - Italian Noodle Soup
• Thursday - Ham and Potato Soup
• Friday - Leftovers
• Saturday - Hawaiian Pork Nachos
• Sunday - Blackened Salmon

On my to do list: I want to complete a few more craft projects this coming week including getting started on the WITL album. I've also got some random small tasks to accomplish. 

Happening this week: We have a very light week planned apparently... 

• Monday - Grocery
• Tuesday - Oakland Zoo visit
• Wednesday - ???
• Thursday - ???
• Friday - Hellyer Park Visit
• Saturday - Coffee and Cards
• Sunday - ???

What I am creating: 30 Days of Lists cards, cards for the next round of classes, and Project Life spreads (I'm still months behind).

My simple pleasures: Lots of new flavors of tea lately plus peanut butter pie and Q snuggles.

Looking around the house: I feel the need to purge some stuff...

From the camera: Arthur and the GGB

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: