Life Right Now #9

As I look outside my window: The snow from yesterday hasn’t melted yet… Very weird after last week’s high temperatures.

Right now I am: Taking a moment before the kids really get amped up for the day.

Thinking and pondering: How long is school going to be canceled. Here’s hoping it’s not the 6 weeks that I’ve heard…

On my bedside table: After the Flood by Kassandra Montag; The Jane Austen Project by Kathleen Flynn

On my tv this week: Nothing actually. But the theater was finally set up last night so we got to actually sit down and watch something.

Listening to: All the podcasts like usual. Really loving the Currently Reading podcast.

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Leftovers

• Tuesday - Red Curry Noodle Soup

• Wednesday - Cheesy Artichoke Pasta

• Thursday - Ranch Cheddar Chicken

• Friday - Spicy Thai Noodles

• Saturday - Leftovers

• Sunday - Pork and Green Chile Stew

On my to do list: All the house projects. Goodness!!!

Happening this week: Well, school is technically on spring break, but I imagine it would be closed anyway. So we’ve instituted a schedule of school-like activities to keep some routine. I put in an order for some extra activity books and some games to play while we are stuck in doors.

What I am creating: Nothing at the moment. Here’s hoping I can do some crafting this coming week.

My simple pleasures: Key lime pie, a good cup of coffee, my own bed.

Looking around the house: Slowly slowly we are getting things put away.

From the camera: Yesterday’s scene in the backyard.

Life Right Now #8

As I look outside my window: I see all the squirrels that love our collective backyards here. So much to watch…

Right now I am: Enjoying the view from our new house’s breakfast nook while I prepare to leave for my birthday day out. I have a big day of pampering planned including a massage, good lunch, book store browsing, and of course ice cream!

Thinking and pondering: Which house project to get started next? I may need to make a master list to help me decide.

On my bedside table: The Secret, Book, and Scone Society by Ellery Adams; Vox by Christina Dalcher

On my tv this week: Nothing actually. We’ve been TV all week while moving.

Listening to: Dungeons and Daddies. I’m finally completely caught up and current. Woot!

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Pulled Pork Sandwiches

• Tuesday - Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken

• Wednesday - Maafe (West African Peanut Stew)

• Thursday - Leftovers

• Friday - Cheesy Artichoke Pasta

• Saturday - Caribbean Salmon Quinoa Bowls

• Sunday - Chicken Pot Pie

On my to do list: Oh so much! I want to prep my library/craft room for painting, finish getting the kitchen counters cleaned off, and ditto the living room furniture. I also need to place my Ikea order so other items can get here and be put away. And I’m sure I have lots of other little things to finish.

Happening this week: I have absolutely nothing planned for this week… It don’t think this has ever happened. To be fair, I left it pretty wide open because I thought that this would be the week we moved. I’m certain Q and I will be able to fill our days with house projects, errands, and a few activities.

My simple pleasures: A few minutes to read while sitting in my new chaise lounge chair. It’s so incredibly comfy!

Looking around the house: Things are slowing starting to be put away correctly. Boxes are being thrown away, bins are being emptied, drawers, cabinets, and closets are being organized.

From the camera: Checking out the tapir at the zoo this week.

Life Right Now #7

On my bedside table: The Night Country by Melissa Albert; Fever by Lauren DeStefano

On my tv this week: Finishing up the first season of Broadchurch. Continuing with Superstore, The Magicians, and Doctor Who.

Listening to: Making my way through Dungeons and Daddies. I’m only like 5 episodes behind.

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Chicken Parmesan

• Tuesday - Asam Pedas

• Wednesday - Leftovers

• Thursday - Pesto Stuffed Shells

• Friday - Prosciutto and Fig Pizza

• Saturday - Cullen Skink

• Sunday - Beef Stew

On my to do list: So much house stuff. I want to take down the rest of the wallpaper in the craft room. And I want to demo the laundry room so we can install some shelves before the washer and dryer go in. Beyond that, I’m sure I have a ton of other house tasks.

Happening this week:

• Monday - House stuff I imagine

• Tuesday - RnR Open Play; Girly Book Club

• Wednesday - RnR Art Class; Arthur and Quentin Dentist Appointment

• Thursday - Book Fair Volunteering; Book Club

• Friday - RnR Gym Class

• Saturday - Nothing Yet

• Sunday - Nothing Yet

What I am creating: Nothing much other than moving checklists and to do lists.

My simple pleasures: Chocolate Cake, comfy blanket, new house deliveries

Looking around the house: We’re getting closer to emptying the house. Things are feeling very bare. Most of the closets and drawers are completely empty.

From the camera: Someone had fun at Chuck E Cheese for a friend’s birthday party.

Life Right Now #6

As I look outside my window: The snow has almost completely melted. The temperatures were very low a few days ago, but we have since rebounded.

Right now I am: Thinking about what I need to do tomorrow for the house.

Thinking and pondering: Which couch and chairs should I buy for the new house? So many choices! I just want to pick something I will really enjoy for the next few years.

On my bedside table: Will My Cat Eat My Eyeballs? by Caitlin Doughty; Come Tumbling Down by Seanan McGuire

On my tv this week: We restarted Broadchurch Season 1. Apparently we only watched the first two episodes before getting distracted. I also dove back into Outlander Season 2. And I finished A Discovery of Witches Season 1.

Listening to: Podcasts per usual.

On the menu for this week: Oooof. My meal planning game has really been off lately. I have completely messed up my plan. Guess I know what I will be doing this afternoon.

On my to do list: Oh so much! Most immediately, I need to order Alex’s yearbook, figure out MPS’s moving procedure, take another load of items over, do a big clean of the house, and choose our next soups and stews.

Happening this week:

• Monday - Arthur doesn’t have school, so I don’t know…

• Tuesday - Little Guys Gym

• Wednesday - RnR Crayons

• Thursday - RnR PMO

• Friday -

• Saturday - Arthur’s friend’s birthday party

• Sunday - Kids’s Symphony Performance

What I am creating: Finally dove back into my Memory Planner pages for January. I hope I can keep up with these pages.

My simple pleasures: A moment of peace, planning for future trips, a cookie and a cup of tea.

Looking around the house: Things are a disaster and it doesn’t look like anything has been packed. And yet, there are many empty closets and drawers all throughout the house.

From the camera: Somehow I completely missed this spice rack in one of our new cabinets. Very excited to fill this one with all our spices.

Life Right Now #5

Right now I am: Very sore. Multiple days attempting to remove wallpaper from the blue bathroom has left my shoulders very sore.

Thinking and pondering: I’m wondering what items to pack next. We’re removing all the random items from the house first before our actual move in mid-March.

On my bedside table: Well Met by Jen DeLuca; The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas; The Things We Cannot Say by Kelly Rimmer

On my tv this week: We watched The Spy Who Dumped Me on Friday night. Much better than the 49% that Rotten Tomatoes gave it.

Listening to: AMostly politics podcasts this past week. So much news! I also did listen to multiple episodes of Dungeons and Daddies.

On the menu for this week: Honestly I have no idea what we will be eating this coming week. Guess I should spend some time planning today.

On my to do list: I really want to get that stupid wallpaper out the blue bathroom. That would go a long way. I also want to get some paint samples for the rest of the house and look into cabinet stains. Beyond house stuff, I need to schedule Quentin’s activities for the rest of the month. And I need to figure out March’s possible travel plans.

Happening this week:

• Monday - Wallpaper removal (more…)

• Tuesday - Playdate with a friend

• Wednesday - Arthur’s Kindergarten class Valentine’s Day Party

• Thursday - Arthur Parent-teacher Conference; Zoo or Children’s Museum visit

• Friday - Swimming at the Gym

• Saturday - Craft Day

• Sunday - Arthur’s Classmate’s Birthday Party

What I am creating: I’m finishing out the Valentine’s Day party crafts. And then I hopefully can finish January’s MP pages.

My simple pleasures: Cup of tea, time to read, a wallpaper free bathroom wall

Looking around the house: Ugh! Things are in disarray as we prepare to move next month. There are weird empty places (like one of the built-in bookcases), but overall there is stuff everywhere.

From the camera: The state of my dining room table. It’s bad…

Life Right Now #4

As I look outside my window: All the snow is melting leaving a slushy mess. No fun.

Right now I am: Making my furniture wish lists and thinking about my house renovation timeline.

On my bedside table: The Jane Austen Project by Kathleen Flynn; Fever by Lauren DeStefano; Well Met by Jen DeLuca

On my tv this week: We finished The Good Place last two nights ago. Such a great ending!!!

Listening to: All the podcasts like usual.

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - BBQ Chicken, Barbecue Quesadillas

• Tuesday - Shrimp Pasta

• Wednesday - Leftovers

• Thursday - Asam Pedas

• Friday - Peanut Sauce Chicken and Broccoli Bowls

• Saturday - Smothered Pork Chops

• Sunday - Italian Noodle Soup

On my to do list: Tons of house projects. Plus I need to call the school district about moving school next year.

Happening this week:

• Monday - House stuff

• Tuesday - Dentist appointment; RnR Class

• Wednesday - RnR Class; Arthur’s friend birthday party; Pub Trivia Night

• Thursday -

• Friday - RnR Class

• Saturday -

• Sunday -

What I am creating: Nothing really. Been wrapped up in house stuff this week.

My simple pleasures: Curling up with a good book

Looking around the house: We’re starting the process of decluttering a bit and packing before the house move in March.

From the camera: Adventures in furniture shopping with two kids. This couch is on the short list.

Life Right Now #3

As I look outside my window: The sheet of ice that is our street is a bit ridiculous. I’m not a fan of getting in and out of our house right now…

Right now I am: Watching a movie while constantly blowing my nose. Colds are crap.

On my bedside table: Invisible Women by Caroline Criado-Perez; Ninth House by Leigh Bardugo; The Jane Austen Project by Kathleen Flynn

On my tv this week: We watched most of S1 of The Witcher this past week. Lots of fun. Good fantasy series. I also watched a ridiculous amount of Below Deck while sick.

Listening to: Podcasts. The usual.

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Shrimp Pasta

• Tuesday - BBQ Chicken, Apple, Bacon Quesdaillas

• Wednesday - Leftovers

• Thursday - Jani Me Fasule

• Friday - Broccoli Beef

• Saturday - Avocado, Mozzarella, Bruschetta Chicken

• Sunday - Black Bean Soup

On my to do list: I imagine I have a ton of little tasks to do. I also need to work on the house timeline and some of my big projects.

Happening this week:

• Monday - Nothing. Although I do need to finish out a work project.

• Tuesday - Romp n Roll class; Girly Book Club

• Wednesday - Romp n Roll; Book Club

• Thursday - Dentist appointment; Final house walkthrough; Arthur’s friend’s birthday party

• Friday - House closing

• Saturday - Visit to new house to do measurements

• Sunday - Nothing…

What I am creating: Slowly working on some Memory Planner pages. My creativity has taken a hit to focus on house ideas.

My simple pleasures: A hot cup of tea. A snuggly blanket. A really good exciting book. (I think I’ve been repeating these for awhile now, but as it’s winter, this seems appropriate.)

Looking around the house: I’ve been doing a bit of cleaning out areas in preparation for our move. We’re not going to pack everything up in proper boxes to move a mile down the road, but I do need to decide what to pack properly. I’ve been mentally planning out van trips with groups items to move. We’ll see how it goes.

From the camera: I got my BFC Exchange package this week. My sender really nailed it this quarter! I can’t wait to have a cup of tea, affix my pins, and read this new book.

Life Right Now #2

As I look outside my window: There is a sparkling layer of snow on the ground right now. Sparkling because there is a layer of ice on top. Not the best for driving, but it really looks pretty.

Right now I am: Relaxing after dealing with a sick kid for the past few days.

On my bedside table: Packing for Mars by Mary Roach, The Art of Theft by Sherry Thomas

On my tv this week: The Magicians is back! I am still gutted about Quentin’s death, but so excited to see where the story goes.

Listening to: Podcasts like usual…

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Orecchiette with Sausage, Sun-dried Tomatoes, and Broccoli

• Tuesday - Sega Wat (Spicy Ethiopian Beef Stew)

• Wednesday - Buffalo Chicken Nachos

• Thursday - Leftovers

• Friday - Teriyaki Shrimp Fried Rice

• Saturday - Vegetable Beef Soup

• Sunday - Broccoli Beef

On my to do list: Check with Millard about moving schools, buy a birthday present for Arthur’s friend, check in with the exchange, clean out another closet.

Happening this week:

• Monday - No school, not sure what we’re going to do…

• Tuesday - RnR Open Play

• Wednesday - Errands probably; Maybe Backyard Playworld after school

• Thursday - RnR Parent’s Morning Out

• Friday - RnR Gym Class

• Saturday - Arthur’s friend’s birthday party

• Sunday - Kid’s Symphony

What I am creating: Nothing new really. I spent most of yesterday completing some leftover card kits to clear out my stash. I told myself that once I cleaned these out, I could play with my new stamp sets.

My simple pleasures: A bit of quiet time after a hectic work project.

Looking around the house: We started cleaning out areas in preparation for moving houses. We’re working on a timeline and moving plan that involves minimal boxes and only one day of hiring movers.

From the camera: My little reader

Life Right Now #1

As I look outside my window: There’s a small layer of snow on the ground and it’s going to be very cold today also. Thankfully the big winter storm isn’t going to hit our area.

Right now I am: Watching Double Indemnity. I haven’t seen the movie in years. Apparently we are on an old movie kick lately.

On my bedside table: The Hunger by Alma Katsu; Wither by Lauren DeStefano; The Art of Theft by Sherry Thomas

On my tv this week: We finished S1 of The Mandalorian and His Dark Materials. And The Good Place and Superstore came back this week. Plus we started S8 of Letterkenny.

Listening to: I’ve gotten behind on my podcasts. Trying to catch on my favorites this week.

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Honey Garlic Salmon

• Tuesday - Black Bean and Chorizo Soup (Venezuela)

• Wednesday - Leftovers

• Thursday - Shrimp Pasta

• Friday - Texas Cheese Fries

• Saturday - Kielbasa Skillet

• Sunday - Orecchiette with Sausage, Sundried Tomatoes, and Broccoli

On my to do list: I need to look in MPS’s change of school process, work on my D&D character, take care of some odds and ends, work on the house timeline, and set another reminder for the exchange.

Happening this week:

• Monday - RnR Open Play; Grocery

• Tuesday - Open Gym

• Wednesday - RnR Crayons to Canvas

• Thursday - ???

• Friday -???

• Saturday - Crop Day

• Sunday - ???

What I am creating: I finished my 2019 Memory Planner yesterday so it’s on to the next project. I want to get back working on Arthur’s 2018 Project Life album. Plus I’m hoping to start working on my December Daily album from this year.

My simple pleasures: Nice hot cup of tea, snuggly socks, dark chocolate.

Looking around the house: Looks like a bomb went off in a few of the rooms. I did spend a few hours yesterday cleaning out the basement bedroom and closet. Things are all ready to be packed once the house plan is set. Next up is the other random closets in the house.

From the camera: Two boys in motion…

Life Right Now #37

On my bedside table: Challenger Deep by Neal Shusterman; The Ruin by Dervla McTiernan; The Book of Life by Deborah Harkness; Persuasion by Jane Austen — Wrapping up my 2019 reads!

On my TV: Working my way through S2 of A Chef’s Life and I finally added Below Deck to the queue (my mom’s been begging me to watch that one). I also started A Discovery of Witches and it is everything I hoped it would be! J and I made progress on American Gods S1 and finally started Atlanta S1.

Listening to: Black Veil Brides new EP The Night. Two great new songs from them! I can’t wait for more!

On the menu:

• Monday - Beef Stew

• Tuesday - Green Chile Enchilada Soup

• Wednesday - Leftovers

• Thursday - Grilled Cheese (our last of 2019!)

• Friday - Traveling

• Saturday - Takeout

• Sunday - Must check with mom…

On my to do list: I’ve got a separate list for my pre-travel tasks. And a list for tasks while in Indiana. And a list of random big to-dos. I think I’m ready to dive in.

Happening this week:

• Monday - RnR Castles and Crowns; J movie night with friends

• Tuesday - Gym???; Book Club: My Brilliant Friend

• Wednesday - RnR Crayons to Canvas; Arthur’s Kindergarten Gingerbread House Party; Book Club: The Bookish Life of Nina Hill

• Thursday - RnR Parent’s Morning Out; Final Errands

• Friday - RnR Pirates; Driving to the Quad Cities

• Saturday - Legoland Chicago; Driving to Fort Wayne

• Sunday - Hopefully nothing

What I am creating: Mostly lists and packing piles.

My simple pleasures: Chocolate chip cookies, reading time in silence, comfy oversized sweaters.

What I’m planning: Our trip to Indiana for Christmas. We’re stopping at Legoland in Chicago on the way to Indiana.

Looking around the house: Definitely have a few tasks to complete before Friday. Mostly I need to do a big pick-up across the board.

Looking forward to: Arthur’s class is having a gingerbread house making party on Wednesday. It is going to be chaos, but I’m here for it!

From the camera: This not-so-little one decided to drop from the ceiling onto my chest. Scared the bejesus out of me!

Life Right Now #36

On my bedside table: My Brilliant Friend by Elena Ferrante; 25 Days ‘til Christmas by Poppy Alexander

On my TV: We started and finished Daybreak S1. Very quirky and interesting. We’re also keeping up with The Mandalorian and His Dark Materials.

Listening to: Mostly podcasts. I finally started Dungeons and Daddies at J’s insistence and it is absolutely hilarious! Hoping to listen to some on my drive in Indiana in a few weeks.

On the menu:

• Monday - Chili and Cornbread

• Tuesday - Honey Lime Tilapia

• Wednesday - Turkey Brie Grilled Cheese

• Thursday - Artichoke Pasta

• Friday - Leftovers

• Saturday - Italian Beef Sandwiches

• Sunday - Honey and Lime Jalapeno Chicken

On my to do list: Lots of prep for Christmas and travel. Plus I need to finish my Christmas cards (working on the last 50), get my books together, mail a few items, finish meal planning for this year, and do laundry.

Happening this week: A very light week so far… I still need to schedule our Romp n Roll classes for December.

• Monday -

• Tuesday -

• Wednesday - Santa Party at the Community Center

• Thursday -

• Friday -

• Saturday - Arthur’s classmate’s birthday party

• Sunday - Christmas at the Orchard?

What I am creating: Finally got some momentum on Arthur’s 2018 Project Life album. I organized all of the photos, printed the first three months, and started filling in the pages. I need to buy more photo paper, but lots of progress this week.

My simple pleasures: Ginger molasses cookies. Simply divine!

What I’m planning: I’ve got a list of open houses for today, but need to put them in order (geographically speaking). We’re not in a huge rush, but starting to house hunt. I’m not super excited by any we’re going to see today. Instead, we’re using these open houses as a way to really nail down our wants, assess neighborhoods, and be able to compare houses and prices.

Looking around the house: Hmmm… I’m once again feeling the urge to purge. But first, I think I need a plan of attack.

Looking forward to: Spending Christmas with all of my kids.

From the camera: Two little boys got to meet Santa on Friday night. What did they ask for? Dinosaurs, of course!

Life Right Now #35

On my bedside table: Heirs and Graces by Rhys Bowen; The Starless Sea by Erin Morgenstern

On my TV: Lots of random shows. Most exciting, we started watching The Mandalorian. Really excited about that one.

Listening to: My usual podcasts. I’m really excited about the the new Iowa series on Pod Save America.

On the menu:

• Monday - Chicken and Noodles

• Tuesday - Balsamic Pork Roast

• Wednesday - Leftovers

• Thursday - Thanksgiving!!!

• Friday - Broccoli Beef

• Saturday - Cajun Stuffed Chicken Breast

• Sunday - Turkey Brie Grilled Cheese

On my to do list: I need to finish Thanksgiving prep. I also have some random tasks to complete and a bit of house cleaning.

Happening this week:

• Monday - RnR Construction Class

• Tuesday - RnR Gym Class

• Wednesday -

• Thursday - Thanksgiving!

• Friday -

• Saturday - Holiday activities (still deciding)

• Sunday -

What I am creating: I want to work on my November MP Pages this week and get back to Project Life pages.

My simple pleasures: Shortbread cookies, snuggly blanket

What I’m planning: Working on our holiday activities.

Looking around the house: Things aren’t great. I need to do a big sweep of the house tomorrow. Lots of random things have been misplaced lately.

Looking forward to: Thanksgiving of course! We’re heading over to a friend’s house for dinner.

From the camera: Boys at a friend’s birthday party. So much running and jumping!

Life Right Now #34

On my bedside table: A Hundred Summers by Beatriz Summers; A Very Special Christmas by Mary Balogh

On my TV: We started The Mandalorian this week and color me intrigued. I also started rewatching A Chef’s Life. I have previously watched the first season and parts of the second season.

Listening to: I’ve caught up with a few podcasts so now I am listening in real time. Plus, I’ve added a few new ones to my list.

On the menu:

• Monday - BBQ Cheddar Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes

• Tuesday - Fancy Schmancy Grilled Cheese

• Wednesday - Leftovers

• Thursday - Broccoli Beef

• Friday - Baked Potato Soup

• Saturday - Balsamic Pork Roast

• Sunday - Chicken and Noodles

On my to do list: Bills, bills, bills. Oof. Also we need to plan out the rest of November and December.

Happening this week:

• Monday - ???

• Tuesday - Girly Book Club

• Wednesday - Parent’s Morning Out; Book Club

• Thursday - Gym Class at RnR

• Friday - Finn’s Bday party

• Saturday - ???

• Sunday - ???

What I am creating: Nothing at the moment. I finished all the Christmas cards for this year. Hoping to get to my Memory Planner and Project Life albums this coming week.

My simple pleasures: Hot tea, good books

What I’m planning: Travel plans

Looking around the house: Decent I guess.

Looking forward to: A few hours away from my kids this week, especially book club.

From the camera: Running from the dinosaur!

Life Right Now #33

On my bedside table: The Monster of Elendhaven by Jennifer Griesbrecht; Crisis in the Red Zone by Richard Preston

On my TV: We finished Letterkenny S7 this past week. What are we going to do without our favorite farmers? Beyond that, we caught up with The Good Place and Superstore.

Listening to: So close to catching up with The To Read List podcast…

On the menu:

• Monday - Salami and Cheese Grilled Cheese

• Tuesday - Black Bean Soup and Tacos

• Wednesday - Leftovers

• Thursday - Avocado, Bruschetta Chicken

• Friday - BBQ Cheddar Meatloaf

• Saturday - Blackened Salmon

• Sunday - Brie, Turkey, and Pear Grilled Cheese

On my to do list: I’m certain that I have a ton of little items, but we’ve all been sick most of last week. I’m recovering from a migraine, so not really thinking of a my list right now.

Happening this week:

• Monday - Nothing…

• Tuesday - Playdate at Children’s Museum

• Wednesday - Millard Library Playdate

• Thursday - RnR Crayons to Canvas class; PTO meeting

• Friday - Mall playdate; Dinos on the Loose at the Children’s Museum

• Saturday - Nothing…

• Sunday - Nothing…

What I am creating: Getting close to finishing making Christmas cards for this year. I’m shooting for about 20 more (at least three more designs).

My simple pleasures: A good night’s sleep, cold water, pretty recipe books

What I’m planning: Working on some ideas for 2020 projects. For the kitchen, we did 52 weeks of grilled cheese this year. We’re thinking soups and stews around the world for next year. For reading, I’m planning on changing some things up in terms of reading challenges.

Looking around the house: Ooofff. The playroom is out of control. And I really need to vacuum.

Looking forward to: Picking up my holds at the library. I have a ton of recipe books that I want to explore.

From the camera: I stopped into the newly renovated Joanns down the road. I couldn’t resist some new goodies.

Life Right Now #32

On my bedside table: Feed by MT Anderson; The Lager Queen of Minnesota by J. Ryan Stradal

On my TV: We finished our spooky movie month with Thankskilling. That was terrible! So now we’re starting to catch up on our currently airing shows.

Listening to: Lots of podcasts like usual! I starting back at Episode 1 with the To Read List. Yet another book related podcast to listen to.

On the menu: AAAAHHHH!!!! I have no idea what we are eating this week… Seriously need to get on that meal planning today.

On my to do list: I have the dentist bill 50% taken care of, but we need to figure out a few insurance issues. I also need to wrap up the BFC exchange, work out my TBR for November, and schedule next month’s RnR classes. I know I have other items on my list…

Happening this week: Such a light week right now. I feel like I need to figure out what else we’re doing.

• Monday - RnR Open Play

• Tuesday -

• Wednesday - Parent’s Morning Out at RnR

• Thursday - Park Playdate

• Friday -

• Saturday -

• Sunday -

What I am creating: Working on those Christmas cards. I’ve got over 60 made so far. I’m thinking I need to make about 50 more cards.

My simple pleasures: Reese’s peanut butter cups. That’s it. They are my life right now.

What I’m planning: Working on our November activities. We have many many holes in our schedule right now.

Looking around the house: The boys got bunk beds this weekend. Yeah! But now I need to rearrange their bedroom and clean up the playroom.

Looking forward to: Ummmm…. Friendsgiving?

From the camera: Q and I had a breakfast date at Starbucks on Friday.

Life Right Now #31

On my bedside table: Feed by MT Anderson; Rabid by Bill Wasik

On my TV: Continuing our spooky movie month. Almost at the end! And I caught up with Great British Bake-Off. Next week is the final!

Listening to: An acquaintance recommended a new podcast to me, You Must Remember This, about old Hollywood stories. I’m really digging it!

On the menu:

• Monday - Bangkok Coconut Curry Noodles

• Tuesday - Irish Nachos

• Wednesday - Garlic Ginger Teriyaki Chicken; Spring Rolls; Rice

• Thursday - Leftovers

• Friday - Lentil Nachos

• Saturday - Irish Whisky Stew

• Sunday - Hawaiian Pulled Pork Nachoes

On my to do list: Flu shots, Christmas travel plans, meal plan redo, Christmas lists

Happening this week:

• Monday - Another car appointment

• Tuesday - Tinkergarten; Book Club

• Wednesday - Dentist Appointment; Arthur’s Classroom Halloween Party

• Thursday - RnR Gym Class

• Friday - RnR Construction

• Saturday - Nothing

• Sunday - Nothing

What I am creating: I’m officially starting my Christmas cards today. I’m hoping to make about 100 in November.

My simple pleasures: Peanut butter cups, good suspenseful movies, snuggles

What I’m planning: Now that the Halloween party is planned, I’m turning my attention to Thanksgiving.

Looking around the house: I’ll have to clean up after crop day today, but the rest of the house is in decent shape.

Looking forward to: Halloween party on Wednesday! It should be chaotic fun!

From the camera: Checking out The Very Hungry Caterpillar at Vala’s this week.

Life Right Now #30

On my bedside table: A Dream About Lightning Bugs by Ben Folds; The Walking Dead Vol. 32

On my TV: Continuing our spooky October movie month. A few new-to-me movies and a lot of rewatches.

Listening to: Lots and lots of podcasts of course. I’m really looking forward to starting Unobscured Season 2 about Spiritualism. Hoping I can find some time.

On the menu:

• Monday - Spinach and Blue Cheese Chicken

• Tuesday - Spicy Lentil Nachos

• Wednesday - Leftovers

• Thursday - Monterrey Chicken Skillet

• Friday - Coconut Curry Noodle Bowls

• Saturday - Irish Nachos

• Sunday - Garlic Ranch Chicken Pizza

On my to do list: I have no idea right this minute. Goodness… I know I have things that need to get done. Guess I need to check with my big to do list.

Happening this week:

• Monday - Car appointment; RnR Construction

• Tuesday - Tinkergarten; Halloween at The Durham

• Wednesday - Park Playdate; Vala’s; Book Club

• Thursday - RnR Gym

• Friday - Trick or Treating at OCM

• Saturday - Various Halloween activities to choose from

• Sunday - Crop Day

What I am creating: I knocked out the classroom Halloween cards yesterday. I want to make a few more Halloween cards this week before moving on to Christmas cards next weekend.

My simple pleasures: Loving the few minutes of peace that I can find each day.

What I’m planning: I’m finalizing the Halloween classroom party plans and starting to think about Christmas activities.

Looking around the house: The playroom is yet again a disaster. Really need to clean it this week. We will have to rake some leaves and probably move the grass (one last time) next weekend.

Looking forward to: All the fun Halloween activities coming this week.

From the camera: Loving the chicken piano at Vala’s.

Life Right Now #29

On my bedside table: Challenger Deep by Neal Shusterman; The Broken Girls by Simone St. James

On my TV: It’s scary movie month, so lots of movies!

Listening to: My usual podcasts. I also started The Habitat podcast.

On the menu:

• Monday - Leftovers

• Tuesday - Sausage and Mango Grilled Cheese

• Wednesday - Spicy Lentil Nachoes

• Thursday - Fish and Chips

• Friday - Leftovers

• Saturday - Apple, Cheddar, and Pastrami Grilled Cheese

• Sunday - Garlic Ranch Chicken Pizza

On my to do list: Recover the house from the party yesterday, plan on the Halloween party (Arthur’s class), various errands, library book drop, and many of things I’m sure.

Happening this week: Arthur is on Fall Break Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday so we planned some fun activities.

• Monday - RnR Art Class; Book Fair Volunteering

• Tuesday - Arthur’s Birthday!!; Tinekrgarten; Parent-Teacher Conferences

• Wednesday - Children’s Museum

• Thursday - Vala’s

• Friday - Treetop Adventures

• Saturday - Vala’s with J

• Sunday - Omaha Symphony

What I am creating: Nothing at the moment. I finished the birthday party crafts, so I’m taking a break. Next week I need to work on the Halloween party, Christmas cards, and Memory Planner pages.

My simple pleasures: Resting my feet after a long day. good punch, reading time

What I’m planning: Halloween party activities and crafts

Looking around the house: I need to finish putting away the party supplies and vaccuum the house.

Looking forward to: Our trip to the Treetop Adventures!

From the camera: an astronaut and a robot!

Life Right Now #28

On my bedside table: Capturing the Devil by Kerri Maniscalco; Paper Girls Vol. 6

On my TV: We’ve started our Spooky October so our watching has been spooky movies.

Listening to: All the podcasts like usual. Also, I’ve been listening to a lot of Mike Shinoda and Ghost while at the gym. Good gym music!

On the menu:

• Monday - Brie Grilled Cheese

• Tuesday - Leftovers

• Wednesday - Cornbread waffles and chili

• Thursday - Buffalo Chicken Sliders

• Friday - Teriyaki Shrimp and Rice

• Saturday - Party leftovers

• Sunday - Leftovers / Dinner out for me

On my to do list: Final prep for the birthday party; email whoever (not quite sure who) about the Halloween party; schedule RnR classes for Oct; cleaning so much; finishing my two current books

Happening this week:

• Monday - Park; Library; Park Playdate

• Tuesday - Park?; Tinkergarten

• Wednesday - Park Playdate; Vala’s afterschool

• Thursday - Gym morning; Lunch with Arthur; Errands

• Friday - Party prep

• Saturday - BIRTHDAY PARTY!!!!

• Sunday - Skinny Bones Pumpkin Patch; Book Club; Zombieland dinner and viewing

What I am creating: Working on the birthday party crafts. Making progress, but I still have a ton of little things to do.

My simple pleasures: Cup of tea; a good book; sleeping with the comforter

What I’m planning: Right now, I’m just trying to get past the birthday party this weekend.

Looking around the house: Things are a bit of a disaster right now as we get ready for the party. I have a giant pile of boxes in my dining room (turning into robots), party supplies piled high on the kitchen counter, and a baker’s rack filled with other party supplies. Plus we need to do a big clean sweep of the downstairs on Friday before the party (bathroom, vacuum, sweep). For the playroom, I’m planning on removing about 1/2 of the toys for the party so we have more room to play. Of course we need to vacuum that room also.

Looking forward to: The birthday party of course!

From the camera: Raffle time at the school carnival on Friday!

Life Right Now #27

On my bedside table: Shadow of Night by Deborah Harkness; Living Among the Dead by Daniel Cotton

On my TV: We’re so close to finishing Game of Thrones! Only two more episodes to go. I also finally started The Chilling Chronicles of Sabrina and am loving it. Plus The Good Place and Superstore are back!

Listening to: All the Binge Mode: Game of Thrones podcast episodes. So close to the end!

On the menu:

• Monday - Honey and Lime Jalapeno Chicken

• Tuesday - Brie Grilled Cheese

• Wednesday - Leftovers

• Thursday - Pork and Green Chili Stew

• Friday - Dinner out

• Saturday - BBQ Chicken

• Sunday - Grown Up Bacon Grilled Cheese

On my to do list: Oof! So many little things on my list.

Happening this week:

• Monday - Nothing. I’m thinking gym, library, potentially a park.

• Tuesday - Tinkergarten

• Wednesday - Parent’s Morning Out at RnR (means gym for me); Park after school

• Thursday - RnR

• Friday - School Carnival

• Saturday - Living History at the Fort

• Sunday - Nothing

What I am creating: Working on my Memory Planner, projects for the birthday party, and some Project Life spreads.

My simple pleasures: Simple yellow cake with chocolate icing, listening to the sound of the rain (especially at night), snuggles with Q

What I’m planning: The birthday party of course! We have two weeks to get everything ready.

Looking around the house: I did a big clean of my craft area yesterday. Lots of bits sorted, put away, thrown away, or bagged for donation. I want to organize my PL supplies and my desk is still a mess, but at least the cubbies and the floor are cleaned up.

Looking forward to: The elementary school carnival is this Friday. Arthur is super excited! Here’s hoping we have a good time.

From the camera: Hanging out at Vala’s all Wednesday afternoon and evening.