Life Right Now #29

As I look outside my window: It’s sunny and humid outside right now… I’m not excited about how hot I’m going to be today.

Right now I am: Trying to organize our science curriculum for the year. I realized that the way things were laid out initially doesn’t make much sense to me. So I need to reorder.

On my bedside table: The Naked Sun by Isaac Asimov, a library book?

On my tv this week: We’re working our way through Battlestar S3 and The Orville S1, so lots of space tv shows right now.

Listening to: Podcasts and more podcasts. I started listening to Grim and Mild’s newest podcast, American Shadows. It shows promise, but the first episode is all about the radium girls and I know a lot about that topic. Still hopeful for the future of that podcast.

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Jerk Pork with Caribbean Salsa

• Tuesday - Mongolian Beef

• Wednesday - Avocado, Bruschetta Chicken

• Thursday - Leftovers

• Friday - Buffalo Chicken Sliders

• Saturday - Shrimp Scampi

• Sunday - Calulu

On my to do list: I’m certain I have many little things to do. Sounds like I need to take some time today to do a brain dump.

Happening this week: We’re heading back to the Tree Adventure in Nebraska City for Wednesday’s nature play day. Otherwise, we’ll be home.

What I am creating: Lesson plans like usual. I do want to take some time to craft this week.

My simple pleasures: All the ice water.

Looking around the house: Blergh! I need to clean the bathrooms this week and I’m not excited.

From the camera: Last week was color week! Lots of art this past week.

Life Right Now #28

Right now I am: Putting away homeschooling supplies for the week and getting out next week’s supplies.

Thinking and pondering: Which NOVA episode should we watch to cover the origins of the human race? So many choices…

On my bedside table: Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia

On my tv this week: We finally started The Orville this past week. Pretty good. Like a continuation of Star Trek: The Next Generation. I finished a season of Below Deck: Med and have almost caught up on The 100.

Listening to: Black Veil Brides’s newest album, Restitch These Wounds has been on repeat in my house.

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - French Onion Pork Chops

• Tuesday - Salsa Chicken

• Wednesday - Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus

• Thursday - Sesame Chicken, Rice, Broccoli

• Friday - Leftover

• Saturday - Ranch Cheddar Chicken

• Sunday - Jerk Pork with Caribbean Salsa

On my to do list: Just focusing on Homeschooling again this week. We’re easing into this whole thing.

What I am creating: I need to prep an archaeology dig for Arthur for Tuesday. I have all the ingredients, just need to put it together tonight or Monday night.

My simple pleasures: Plum cake, a good book, a cool breeze, weeding the yard when it’s only 70 degrees outside.

Looking around the house: I need to do a big pickup today. Arthur needs to help clean his playroom. And I need to put away the laundry. All that so we can go into another week of homeschool without piles everywhere.

From the camera: We enjoyed Mo Willems week. So many books!

Life Right Now #27

As I look outside my window: A random storm blew in this early morning… and I was planning to weed the yard! Oh well. Right now it’s still very overcast and lightly sprinkling.

Right now I am: Prepping for the day

On my bedside table: Dreamland by Nancy Bilyeau; The End of October by Lawrence Wright

On my tv this week: We’ve almost finished the second season of The Umbrella Academy! Yes! and No! I don’t want it to end.

Listening to: The usual podcasts. Plus I’ve been listening to Hayley Williams’s album Petals for Armor on repeat lately.

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Shrimp Burrito Bowls

• Tuesday - Sloppy Joes

• Wednesday - Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken

• Thursday - Baked Potato Soup

• Friday - French Onion Pork Chops

• Saturday - Leftovers

• Sunday - Takeout Pizza

On my to do list: I need to focus on homeschool this week.

Happening this week: We’re officially starting homeschooling tomorrow! Hope it goes well.

What I am creating: I’m finally working on my Memory Planner again. Almost finished with June. Next big task is to format and print July’s pictures.

My simple pleasures: Hot coffee, feeling organized, pretty pens

Looking around the house: Some areas were cleaned up while others have acquired clutter. I need to reinstitute a weekly cleaning schedule. Over the week, J did clean the third bay in the garage so he could pull his car in (a friend is going to use our driveway to store a vehicle this week).

From the camera: We found some chairs in the forest this week…

Life Right Now #26

As I look outside my window: It’s a bit overcast but should clear up and bring cooler temperatures. So ready for this!

Right now I am: Drinking some coffee, looking over my to-do list.

Thinking and pondering: Which color should I spray paint the school desk? Either a blue or a green…

On my bedside table: Beach Read by Emily Henry; Agnes at the End of the World by Kelly McWilliams

On my tv this week: The Umbrella Academy is back!!!!! I’m so excited. I really should pace myself, but a big part of me just wants to binge it right now.

Listening to: All the usual podcasts. Lots of whining children. It’s not been a great week…

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Leftovers

• Tuesday - Shrimp Burrito Bowl

• Wednesday - Baked Potato Soup

• Thursday - Crab and Asparagus Soup

• Friday - French Onion Pork Chops

• Saturday - Leftovers

• Sunday - Cawl Cennin (Welsh Leek Soup)

On my to do list: I have a big list of smallish tasks for the week. Mostly just organizing everything and prepping for fall. And I need to drop some mail off at the post office and our absentee ballot requests at the election commission.

Happening this week: I made appointments for library hold pickup and a zoo day this week. And it’s grocery week. Otherwise, this is our break week in between summer school and homeschooling start.

What I am creating: I’m currently in the midst of refinishing an old style school desk I picked up for free awhile back. I have all my tools. Just need to get to cleaning, sanding, and then spray painting. Hoping to be done this week so Arthur can use it for homeschooling.

My simple pleasures: A smoky old-fashioned, listening to the rain, a good apocalypse book.

Looking around the house: Things are in pikes everywhere. This week is all about organizing and putting everything away from summer stuff.

From the camera: We went swimming last Tuesday. So nice!

Life Right Now #25

As I look outside my window: It’s overcast today, but make no mistake, it’s still going to be ridiculous hot!

Right now I am: Trying to steal 5 quiet minutes before I have to make food (story of my life).

On my bedside table: The Caves of Steel by Isaac Asimov; some Regency romance series?

On my tv this week: Moving through S2 of Battlestar Galactica, S3 of Below Deck Med, and S7 of The 100.

Listening to: Nothing but podcasts…

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Leftovers

• Tuesday - Fish Chowder Soup (Australia)

• Wednesday - Firecracker Chicken

• Thursday - Baked Potato Soup

• Friday - Shrimp Burrito Bowl

• Saturday - Crab and Asparagus Soup (Vietnam)

• Sunday - Leftovers

On my to do list: I need to wrap up Alex’s school registration plus I need to call Arthur’s assigned school to tell them that we are going to homeschool. Beyond that, it’s the usually house chores and such.

Happening this week: We actually have a few things on the calendar for this coming week. On Tuesday, I’m going to a friend’s house for a pool party and I have Girly Book Club. On Wednesday, I’m picking up holds at the library and I have my other book club that night. On Thursday or Friday, I’m hoping to get to Target for the last of the school supplies and probably a few food items to hold us over until grocery day.

This will also be our last week for “summer school.” We’re closing out our unit studies with Insects and Bees. Arthur’s excited.

What I am creating: Lesson plans for homeschool and blog post mainly. I want to get back to paper crafting, but my motivation and inspiration has disappeared.

My simple pleasures: A cup of coffee, a good zombie book, cloudy days (even if it’s still hot as hell out there)

Looking around the house: J almost has the basement shop prepped for painting the cinder block walls before starting framing it out. Making a bit of progress. Nothing else has happened upstairs, but I’m really contemplating a ceiling fan for our bedroom. Air flow is terrible in there.

From the camera: Being scientists…

Life Right Now #24

As I look outside my window: It’s a bit overcast, but still going to clear up and be over 90 degrees today. Thankfully tomorrow the high is 80 degrees. I need to open these windows again and get some fresh air!

Right now I am: Sorting through all the random school resources I downloaded this week. I just found a great music listening journal template that I’m totally going to use.

Thinking and pondering: Do I have enough energy today to clean the toilets? Who am I kidding? I will find every excuse to not clean the toilets, but then, the toilets don’t get cleaned because no one else in this house is going to do it.

On my bedside table: Across the Universe by Beth Revis; Shrill by Lindy West

On my tv this week: We’re slowly starting S2 of Battlestar Galactica. I made some progress on Below Deck and The 100.

Listening to: Just podcasts. I’ve really enjoyed quiet this week.

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Kale and White Bean Soup

• Tuesday - Monterrey Chicken Skillet

• Wednesday - Baked Potato Soup

• Thursday - Spicy Shrimp Burrito Bowls

• Friday - Leftovers

• Saturday - Sweet Potato Nachos

• Sunday - Pineapple BBQ Chicken

On my to do list: I want to work through some more of the homeschool resources I found. I’m slowly getting everything prepped for August. I also know we need to continue organizing the garage. It’s looking so much better, but still a lot of stuff in there that shouldn’t be in there. And I suspect some trash (mostly just old boxes, not like rotting food trash).

Happening this week: I made another library pickup appointment for Wednesday. And this week is grocery week, although my list is in shambles right now. Guess I know what I’m doing tonight.

What I am creating: Lesson plans mainly. But I do want to print my June memory planner photos and work on a “me” project this week.

My simple pleasures: Quiet, a cool breeze, a chat with a friend.

Looking around the house: I need to vacuum and do a general pickup. Plus, those darn toilets won’t clean themselves.

From the camera: Most of this week’s library book haul.

Life Right Now #23

As I look outside my window: It’s bright and sunny and so so hot.

Right now I am: Trying to escape the overly tired kids and get a bit of quiet time.

On my bedside table: The Guest List by Lucy Foley; Tweet Cute by Emma Lord

On my tv this week: J and I started Avenue 5 starring Hugh Laurie. It is a delight! We also continued Battlestar Galactica S1. And I watched a few more episodes of The 100 S7.

Listening to: Just podcasts and lots of kids crying and screaming this past week. It was a rough week…

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Paplou Soup (Omani fish soup)

• Tuesday - Baked Potato Soup

• Wednesday - Jamaican Prawn and Sweet Potato Curry

• Thursday - Teriyaki Chicken

• Friday - Leftovers

• Saturday - Kale and White Bean Soup

• Sunday - Orecchiette with Sausage, Sun Dried Tomatoes, and Broccoli

On my to do list: I need to finish Alex’s school registration. That’s my big task. Otherwise, I have all my usual weekly tasks.

Happening this week: I have a library hold pick up scheduled for Wednesday morning. But very exciting, on Thursday we’re having a friend and her kid over for a backyard picnic and playdate (and pool time). This will be the first time we’ve had a friend over at the new house.

What I am creating: Lesson plans for our upcoming homeschooling year. I’ve got the first few weeks kinda set and I need to work on our long term plans before circling back around to Week 1.

My simple pleasures: Lemon curd on my homemade waffles; iced coffee; cool breeze sitting under our tree; being able to see out the playroom window (I trimmed the bush)

Looking around the house: Blergh! There’s random stuff everywhere because no one else in this house knows how to put things away correctly.

From the camera: I got the inflatable pool out this weekend. Big hit!

Life Right Now #22

As I look outside my window: Bright and sunny after a hazy morning. Although the air is at low quality due to the fireworks last night.

Right now I am: Lounging in my chair, catching up on blog posts, before reading part of my book.

Thinking and pondering: How do the twins manage to leave random crap at my house every time they leave? This time it was an entire sheet set (wonder if A needs that for his dorm room?), some clothes, and body wash.

On my bedside table: The House with a Clock in its Walls by John Bellairs; Once & Future Vol. 1; Clap When You Land by Elizabeth Acevedo

On my tv this week: We watched Hamilton on Saturday of course! Beyond that, we finished S2 of Cosmos and made progress on S1 of Battlestar Galactica.

Listening to: All the podcasts per usual. I need more music in my life this week.

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Leftovers

• Tuesday - Kharcho (Georgian Beef Soup)

• Wednesday - Teriyaki Chicken

• Thursday - Paplou (Omani Fish Soup)

• Friday - Monterey Chicken Skillet

• Saturday - Leftovers

• Sunday - Prawn and Sweet Potato Curry (Jamaica)

On my to do list: I need to register Alex for the Academy, make an appointment for library pick up, work on homeschool plan, and do a ton of cleaning.

Happening this week: It’s Rainforest Week for our Summer Unit Themes! We’re going to learn about the plants and animals plus some conservation. I found some great library books and tv documentaries for this unit. The next week is Moving West.

What I am creating: Nothing really, although I do need to print my collage pictures for the memory planner. And I should make a few cards using a borrowed stamp set.

My simple pleasures: Hazelnut Cream Iced Coffee (homemade!); finishing pulling the weeds!; reading a fun light book (looking at you Murderbot Diaries!)

Looking around the house: J demoed the closet in the basement work room, so big progress made down there. I need to make our summer/fall house renovation list so we know want to focus on. I know I need to cut down the front bush and clean up the rose bushes. Otherwise, it’s the usual sweep, vacuum, dishes, laundry like every week.

From the camera: Not too impressed by the sparklers. They enjoyed the poppers more.

Life Right Now #21

As I look outside my window: It’s supposed to be sunny and very hot today. Thinking the kids should get outside for some water play after lunch.

Right now I am: Figuring out what to make for brunch today. I’m thinking bacon, eggs, and maybe waffles.

On my bedside table: Exit Strategy by Martha Wells; Conjure Women by Afia Atakora

On my tv this week: J and I dove into Battlestar Galatica and caught up with Holey Moley, Patriot Act, and Last Week Tonight.

Listening to: Mostly podcasts

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Texas Cheese Fries

• Tuesday - Smothered Pork Chops

• Wednesday - Beef Stew

• Thursday - Pizza

• Friday - Kharcho

• Saturday - ???

• Sunday - Black Bean Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

On my to do list: I need to work on our summer bucket list and do a pantry overhaul.

Happening this week: The twins are going back east on Thrusday. So that means that we need to organize and pack early this week.

What I am creating: All the lists. I’m working on our first month or so of homsechooling. And I’m gathering all the resources for the overall year.

My simple pleasures: Chocolate chip cookies, iced tea, quiet reading moments

Looking around the house: The basement demolition has started. We’re working on getting things ready to fix the storage area to turn it into a workshop.

From the camera: We picked up a ton of books from the library this week. It took two people with two handcarts to bring them to my car.

Life Right Now #20

As I look outside my window: It’s another sunny day although it is supposed to rain tomorrow afternoon.

Right now I am: Getting brunch ready for later. I’m thinking orange rolls, sausage patties, and eggs.

On my bedside table: The Paris Hours by Alex George; The Daughters of Temperance Hobbs by Katherine Howe

On my tv this week: We restarted Battlestar Galatica as we’ve finished Broadchurch. For run, we’ve been watching Holey Moley.

Listening to: The usual podcasts. I also had Hayley Williams, Fiona Apple, and The Lumineers on repeat.

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Teriyaki Shrimp and Rice

• Tuesday - Chicken Parmesan

• Wednesday - Chicken Tortilla Soup

• Thursday - Broccoli Beef

• Friday - Leftovers

• Saturday - Takeout Ramen

• Sunday - Texas Cheese Fries

On my to do list: I imagine that I will be doing another library pickup this week. Tuesday is also our biweekly grocery visit.

Happening this week: I’ve attempted to schedule another zoo visit for Monday. Hopefully this time we actually get to go. I also have both of my book clubs this week. Still over Zoom, but excited to talk books this week.

What I am creating: I should work on my Memory Planner pages for June. And hopefully I can find time and inspiration to make another card.

My simple pleasures: A cool breeze, a good book, ice water

From the camera: I cut Arthur and Quentin’s hair this week! And it doesn’t look half bad.

Life Right Now #19

As I look outside my window: Bright and sunny

Right now I am: Researching potential homeschooling for Arthur

On my bedside table: The Friend Zone by Abby Jimenez

On my tv this week: We watched a couple of mediocre comedy movies. We also finished Broadchurch S3, continued with Holey Moley S1, and dove back into Cosmos S2. I’m up to S6 of Below Deck.

Listening to: A few podcasts here and there.

On the menu for this week:

• Monday - Chicken Pad Thai Nachos

• Tuesday - Pulled Pork Sandwiches

• Wednesday - Spaghetti

• Thursday - Pot Roast

• Friday - Leftovers

• Saturday - Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken

• Sunday - Fried Rice with Shrimp

On my to do list: I need to make another library pickup appointment, start getting the twins return trip organized, think more about homeschooling, pick up Arthur’s yearbook, do a grocery run (we had a package of chicken leak and go bad), spray for ants, and organize next week’s school theme (U.S. Geography).

What I am creating: I’m hoping to get back into card making. I made two cards last week and want to use the bundle I borrowed from a friend to make some more.

My simple pleasures: Sweet and spicy tea, a cool breeze, sprinklers

Looking around the house: J has been demoing more of the basement in preparation for potential air duct replacement and to make a server closet. It’s a mess on one side, but he’s made great progress so far.

From the camera: We went berry picking! A great socially distant activity for us. The berries were really small due to a late frost, but they taste great. I’m making strawberry compote today for a waffles.

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