Life Right Now #18

On my bedside table: When Women Ruled by Kara Cooney; The Library of Legends by Janie Chang

On my tv this week: Not much. I ended up going to bed early multiple nights and didn’t watch any TV or movies. I have continued watching Below Deck during lunch. I’m currently on S6.

Listening to: Palaye Royale’s new album The Bastards. Oh so incredibly good! Loving every single song.

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Beef Stew

• Tuesday - Ranch Cheddar Chicken

• Wednesday - Fiesta Chicken / Tacos

• Thursday - Spinach and Tangerine Soup

• Friday - Sloppy Joes

• Saturday - Leftovers

• Sunday - Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken

Happening this week: I have a dentist appointment on Monday afternoon. And it’s time to go grocery shopping this week, probably on Tuesday. Other than that, no plans.

What I am creating: I finished my 2020 Week in the Life album today. So excited to cross off another big project from my master list. I’m hoping to move onto some greeting cards for next week.

My simple pleasures: Strawberry Rhubarb Crumble with a bit of Vanilla Ice Cream

Looking around the house: Not much progress lately… It’s been too hot. I haven’t felt very good. Maybe next weekend.

From the camera: The boys pretending to be different dinosaurs.

Life Right Now #17

As I look outside my window: Bright and sunny after last night’s thunderstorms. We’re going to get another storm system this afternoon, but this morning it’s so pretty outside.

Right now I am: Drinking an iced coffee and relaxing before making brunch.

On my bedside table: The Scandals of an Innocent and The Undoing of a Lady by Nicole Cornick. I’m trying to finish out the Brides of Fortune series before the month ends.

On my tv this week: J and I have continued our May Movie Month. I finally watched 2010. I enjoyed it and would have loved it if the voice-overs were done differently. Very annoying at times. The last season of The 100 started last week. I really need to get watching it…

Listening to: Mostly podcasts, but I did use the Sonos in the craft/library room to enjoy Alt Nation while crafting.

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Chicken and Noodles

• Tuesday - Honey Garlic Salmon; Tilapia

• Wednesday - Leftovers

• Thursday - Chicken Ranch Tacos

• Friday - Calulu

• Saturday - Smothered Pork Chops

• Sunday - Honey and Lime Jalapeno Chicken

On my to do list: The library is now accepting returns at limited times and limited locations. I need to swing by on my grocery day and start unloading our read books. I also need to do the big grocery run this Tuesday and we need to mail Alex’s textbooks back to the Academy.

Happening this week: For the summer, I have picked a weekly theme for Arthur. He was really getting into structured school time, so we decided to continue it. Plus I really want his math and reading skills to progress. Last week was Art History and he really got into trying different art styles. This week is Farm Week. We are going to learn about how farms operate and various animals throughout the week. Plus we are reading Charlotte’s Web before bedtime.

Also, I missed Ali Edwards doing Week in the Life last month. But I figured this coming week would be as good of a week as any to do it for 2020. A week of social distancing will be interesting to document in detail. I foresee less photos and more journalling this year.

What I am creating: Working on finishing my 2019 Week in the Life Album this weekend. I’m so close! And then I can check off another project from my master list.

My simple pleasures: Listening to the rain at night…

Looking around the house: J and I are contemplating our next house move. We think we’re going to pull down the ceilings in the basement to replace the air ducts in preparation for the new furnace later this summer. Plus open ceilings would allow J to run fiber throughout the house. We need to get a few estimates for air ducts first.

From the camera: Painting this week for Art History.

Life Right Now #16

As I look outside my window: It’s raining… so much rain and so much green.

Right now I am: Enjoying my coffee in the cool morning.

On my bedside table: The Deep by Alma Katsu; Bringing Down the Duke by Eva Dunmore; Circe by Madeline Miller

On my tv this week: We’ve continued our May Movie Month with Jumanji 3, The Darkest Minds, and Mortal Engines. Two were duds, one was good. Can you figure out which is which?

Listening to: Just the usual podcasts. Nothing new or exciting.

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Soup

• Tuesday - Chili

• Wednesday -Baked Chicken Parmesan

• Thursday - Leftovers

• Friday - Baked Potato Soup

• Saturday - Takeout Ramen

• Sunday - Spaghetti

On my to do list: I’m certain that I have things on my list, but I can’t remember any of them right now. I guess I need to check the big list today.

Happening this week: What day is it? What week is it?

What I am creating: I’ve been working through my Memory Planner and Project Life pages. Getting closer to the present.

My simple pleasures: Listening to the rain, a boba tea, a good book, dark chocolate

Looking around the house: Saturday’s house chore day took care of a lot of cleaning tasks. Now I can focus on some maintenance and possibly hang some things this coming week.

From the camera: Saturday’s sushi and homemade miso soup.

Life Right Now #15

As I look outside my window: Our backyard is just so green right now. I’m loving the grass and the trees. I might curse the amount of leaves falling come September, but right now, it’s just so pretty and lush.

Right now I am: Taking a moment before the kids start demanding everything.

Thinking and pondering: What should I make for brunch? Every Sunday, I’ve been making a larger brunch for everyone. Today is the day before grocery shopping so we have limited food items. Maybe leftovers waffles (from the freezer), sausage links, and eggs?

On my bedside table: Serpent and Dove by Shelby Mahurin; Circe by Madeline Miller

On my tv this week: Continuing on with What We Do in the Shadows S2 and Below Deck (Med S2 and regular S5). We also started Living with You starring Paul Rudd and I’m totally hooked!

Listening to: Just podcasts this week. I need to be more mindful of adding music back into my regular reading.

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Mongolian/Broccoli Beef (haven’t decided yet)

• Tuesday - Fish and Chips

• Wednesday - Grilled Cheese: Regular and Buffalo Rancher

• Thursday - Leftovers

• Friday - Miso Soup and Sushi

• Saturday - Chili

• Sunday - Garlic Shrimp Pasta

On my to do list: Other than random house tasks, my to do list is pretty light this week. I need to send out a few gifts to people, fix the meal plan, and organize lots of things.

Happening this week: I need to work on blocking out my days a little better. I want to fit in reading, crafting, housework, playing with the kids, and Arthur schoolwork.

What I am creating: Finally back to crafting a bit. I’ve been organizing supplies and decided to dive back into Project Life albums. I’ve got Arthur’s 2018 album to finish and Family 2019 and December Daily 2019 to start.

My simple pleasures: Chocolate, watching the wind blow through the trees (seriously love the backyard view here), sending out cards to friends, a satisfying conclusion to a book.

Looking around the house: More small house projects have been completed. I’m hoping to finish hanging curtains today. I think that will really make a big difference for me.

From the camera: We have almost finished the living room! Well, for now anyway. All of the funriture pieces have arrived and been put in place. In the future, we are going to change out the flooring, redo the fireplace and builtins, and paint the walls. But until we do, this is how my living room looks. It’s so cozy and inviting. I only we could invite people over to enjoy it with us…

Life Right Now #14

As I look outside my window: Sunny after yesterday’s rainstorms.

Right now I am: Trying to gather ingredients for brunch. Not sure if I want to make waffles or muffins this morning.

Thinking and pondering: At what point do I determine that the Reading Retreat just isn’t going to happen this summer?

On my bedside table: Things in Jars by Jess Kidd; Serpent & Dove by Shelby Mahurin

On my tv this week: We watched a few movies and a few tv shows, but not a ton. We did watch the Beastie Boys Story and that was absolutely amazing. I laughed and I cried while watching. Perfect!

Listening to: Nothing much other than my usual podcasts. I need to listen to music more…

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Balsamic Pork Roast

• Tuesday - Beef Stew

• Wednesday - Micronesian Chicken Coconut Curry

• Thursday - Chicken Shawarma Fries

• Friday - Homemade Pizza

• Saturday - Leftovers

• Sunday - Buffalo Rancher Grilled Cheese; Regular Grilled Cheese

On my to do list: I want to write some cards to send to friends. Plus I would like to clean out a few boxes and some files on my computer.

Happening this week: Um… virtual book club on Monday, grocery shopping on Tuesday… that’s all I got.

What I am creating: Nothing really. Hoping to get back to Project Life this coming week as I now have my desk in place.

My simple pleasures: Pomegranate black tea (so yummy), listening to the thunderstorm and rain, sitting in my reading nook

Looking around the house: We got a ton done yesterday. Lots of cleaning. Lots of little things. Hopefully I can find some time to hang curtains this week.

From the camera: I’m finally starting to get my craft/library room set up! This is my current reading nook.

Life Right Now #13

As I look outside my window: Much nicer than last weekend. Sunshine instead of rain!

Right now I am: Prepping to go hide Easter Eggs in the yard. The Easter Bunny didn’t get to visit us last weekend due to the weather. He is coming today!

Thinking and pondering: What should we do with the back deck? We know that we will have to replace it either next summer or in two summers. We’re kicking around some ideas of how to reconfigure the layout and to be more useable. Also we want to add a cooking area to house the grill and potential a mini keg fridge.

On my bedside table: The Golden Hour by Beatriz Williams, The Deep by Rivers Solomon

On my tv this week: J and I finished Lego Masters S1 and I really don’t agree with who won at all. We also started What We Do in the Shadows S1 (hilarious!) and made progress on Making It S1.

Listening to: Chill Mix on Apple Music. Soothing music is really helping my anxiety this week.

On the menu for this week: We’re hitting three different countries for this week’s Soups and Stews selections. Really I bought the ingredients and need to use before they go bad.

• Monday - Mozambique Crab Coconut Curry

• Tuesday - Kulajda (Czech Soup)

• Wednesday - Micronesian Chicken Coconut Curry

• Thursday - Cheesy Chicken, Broccoli, and Rice

• Friday - Broccoli Beef

• Saturday - Leftovers

• Sunday - Lemon Dill Cappelini with Salmon

On my to do list: Painting the craft room, prepping schoolwork for Arthur (his last day of instruction from his teacher is May 14th), put in my Ikea order (craft room furniture!), work on the caulk on the bathtub, and bake all the things!

Happening this week: Um. Nothing per usual right now.

What I am creating: Nothing much although I do want to get back to Project Life this week. Hoping to print some photos get everything organized.

My simple pleasures: Coconut Cookies, Hot tea, freshly primed walls, front door window decals (yeah for some privacy), looking at kitchen ideas

Looking around the house: Slowly slowly we are making progress. My craft room might be ready next weekend. Art is going up on the walls. We’re still waiting on my last living room chair and the dining room chair, but those are not scheduled to come in until May. I need to work on the Arthur and Quentin’s room next: putting up art, assembling some furniture, decorating with their things.

From the camera: I finished priming my craft room! That means I get to actually paint it this week and potentially move in furniture next weekend.

Life Right Now #12

As I look outside my window: So cold, gray, and snowy! What?!?!?! It’s the middle of April; get it together Nebraska.

Right now I am: Getting ready to prep molasses rolls dough for Easter dinner. I bought a spiral ham two weeks ago on a whim and am now excited to have a more traditional Easter dinner even if I’m separated from family.

Thinking and pondering: What is the best day to hit the grocery store next week? I don’t want to wait too long, but also want to keep social distancing. Decisions, decisions.

On my bedside table: Planetfall by Emma Newman; All the Stars and Teeth by Adalyn Grace

On my tv this week: J and I started Lego Masters and Making It for some lighter tv fun. We also watched Empire Records for its 25th anniversary and the new Emma movie (so delightful).

Listening to: More music. After last week’s overdose of podcasts, I purposely tried to listen to more music this week. I did a good job. We even had a little pre-dinner dance party the other night.

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Leftovers

• Tuesday - Black Bean Soup; Tacos

• Wednesday - Cedar Salmon; Parmesan Tilapia

• Thursday - BBQ Chicken

• Friday - Pasta E Fagioli from Italy (52 Soup and Stews)

• Saturday - Balsamic Glazed Pork Roast

• Sunday - Leftovers

On my to do list: Add another coat of primer to the library/craft room walls. Put up the front window decals. Finally order my furniture from Ikea. Choose a proper paint color for library/craft room. Do a bit of actual crafting.

Happening this week: Should I just delete this prompt now? Going nowhere, doing schoolwork, trying to get a few house projects done, continuing to feed my family.

What I am creating: Nothing much. I did work on my Memory Planner this past week.

My simple pleasures: Scones, all the scones. I made Lemon Poppy Seed ones and Ham and Cheese ones this past week. I’m thinking Chocolate Chip ones and Apple Cider ones this week.

Looking around the house: Things are slowly slowly coming together.

From the camera: Not a very glamorous picture, but I put up a coat of primer in my library/craft room. So much better! We need one more coat of primer and then proper paint.

Life Right Now #11

As I look outside my window: Very sunny outside. A bit chilly today, but better than yesterday…

Right now I am: Listening to music instead of kids fighting/playing loudly and podcasts. I needed a break from just people speaking Apple Music’s Chill playlist is really speaking to me today.

Thinking and pondering: Nothing and everything all at once. My anxiety has really run off the rails this past week. My brain does not shut off and yet I cannot focus on specific tasks.

On my bedside table: 1776 by David McCullough; The Dollhouse by Fiona Davis

On my tv this week: J and I finished The Magicians. So sad that series has ended. It got so so good! We also made some progress on Broadchurch S2 and I watched a few episodes of Below Deck. A very light TV week.

Listening to: Apple Music’s Chill playlist, Lady Antebellum’s Live in the Round EP (especially “Ocean”), podcasts like usual (although I really need a break)

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Sausage, Potato, and Spinach Soup

• Tuesday - Cajun Chicken and Sausage Alfredo Pasta

• Wednesday - Leftovers

• Thursday - Hawaiian Pulled Pork Nachos

• Friday - Brinner featuring Sausage Crescent Rolls

• Saturday - Teriyaki Chicken, Rice, Broccoli, and Spring Rolls

• Sunday - Easter Ham, Potatoes, Veggies, Rolls, Salad, and Wacky Cake

On my to do list: I really need to look at my big to-do list. We crossed off a number of tasks on our Saturday work day, but I know a few things did not get done. And I have a list of home things to find such as the rest of the art and specific important papers. I have a rough idea of where they are, but need to search through the random catch-all places. I also need to do a shopping list (non-groceries).

Happening this week: Haha… this prompt is such a joke now. We’re in the house. Hopefully we can go for walks around the neighborhood. Three of the kids have school. I will be cleaning. That’s it.

What I am creating: I hope I can get to my Memory Planner this week. And maybe pull out my Project Life supplies to assess where I stopped. I know I need to finish Arthur’s 2018 album and not one 2019 album was started. But I also have my 2019 December Daily and 2019 Week in the Life albums floating around to finish.

My simple pleasures: Good music, an engaging book, good night’s sleep

Looking around the house: The living room is almost sorted. We are still waiting on delivery of the chair, but the art is up and the random pile is smaller now. Hoping to get the craft/library room primed this week so I can paint next week.

From the camera: A cool treat after hard outdoor play last week…

Life Right Now #10

As I look outside my window: Rainy rain all day

Right now I am: Reviewing the weekend task list. We knocked out a ton of the original list, but there’s still a number of tasks left.

Thinking and pondering: What will next week bring?

On my bedside table: Redshirts by John Scalzi; The Complete Phonogram; Rat Queens Vol. 7

On my tv this week: We watched a few movies including Birds of Prey and The Gentleman. Plus we caught up to The Magicians.

Listening to: So many podcasts. I might be in podcast overload. I think I need to focus on listening to music this coming week.

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Sloppy Joes

• Tuesday - Blackened Salmon and Tilapia

• Wednesday - Smothered Pork Chops

• Thursday - Lablabi

• Friday - Leftovers

• Saturday - Cajun Chicken and Sausage Alfredo

• Sunday - Chicken Tortilla Soup

On my to do list: Oh so much. I’m waiting for some deliveries so I can cross off a few more tasks.

Happening this week: Our new normal. We have nothing on the schedule except remote learning.

What I am creating: Other than lists of house projects, nothing much.

My simple pleasures: Marble torte cake (great choice for J’s birthday cake) and hot tea

Looking around the house: Things are getting done even if they are little things.

From the camera: Birthday cakes for J and Nick and Alex

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!