After missing last week, it was just a rather busy and emotional week (more on that later), time to get back to planning. A day late as usual.

Linking up with Sandra over at Diary Of A Stay At Home Mom as usual also. Let’s just get straight to the categories.

The Weather 

Today is a cool, rainy day after a weekend full of nice, sunny days.

As I Look Outside My Window

The much needed rain is falling but I can see where a squirrel had breakfast on the deck leaving his mess of walnut shells.

Right Now

I am working on this post while also trying to clear out my work e-mail in attempt to figure out why it won’t forward to my regular e-mail any more.

Thinking And Pondering

Mostly just hoping this week is a bit calmer than last week. Last week was emotional and rough. The co-director of my work passed away Monday evening, I worked more than expected, and J had some rough days (not related) as well. There were some happy moments, G turned 21 on Saturday! We ate dinner out with family (including my father-in-law) to celebrate. Sunday was the celebration of life and the day we did G’s presents and cake here (He worked Saturday and had plans that evening after dinner). A bit surreal to bake a birthday cake in the a.m., attend a funeral service in the p.m., and then go home to frost the cake and sing Happy Birthday.

Homemaking Tips 

I’ve discovered checking cookbooks out from the library! There’s just something about browsing through an actual cookbook vs. finding recipes on-line. Fun way to try new recipes. (Haven’t tried anything from this one yet but added a few recipes from a Gordon Ramsay cookbook to our rotation)

How I Am Feeling This Morning

Okay, I slept better last night but have quite a lot to do this week.

On The Breakfast Plate

Oatmeal and toast

On My Reading Pile

Just started reading Chasing The Scream: The First and Last Days of The War on Drugs by Johann Hari. Really interesting so far.

On My TV

Watched both seasons of Emily in Paris on Netflix in far too few days last week. I think there’s one more Better Call Saul left before the mid-season finale. So just whatever happens to be on mostly. Last night it was Don’t Forget the Lyrics and Shazam.

On The Menu

Definitely trying to do a bit more eating at home and out of the freezer/pantry with current prices. YIKES.

MONDAY: We had pork chops (Gordon Ramsay recipe, simple pan seared/finished in oven with garlic and thyme) and baked potatoes

TUESDAY: Forgot to thaw a roast for the crockpot so it’s now Taco Tuesday. *J has a baritone lesson at 5:30* *I’m helping with preschool graduation at 4:30*

WEDNESDAY: Roast in the Crock pot *I have work training 1-2:45* *J has early morning band practice*

THURSDAY: Pepper steak/chicken with rice *I work 8:30-5*

FRIDAY: Choice of leftovers *I work 8:30-5*

From The Camera

Didn’t have a lot of camera “mojo” last week so most photos in the post were from yesterday.

Looking Around The House

Haven’t had a lot of house cleaning “mojo” either even with using the Fly lady timer method. Not awful but hoping to get a burst of energy and make it look a bit fresher today.

On My To Do List

Longer than 5 items but I’m struggling to focus and remember it all.

1. Clean up the house
2. Put winter clothes away in space saver bags (FINALLY, had to order couldn’t find the bags anywhere)
3. Figure out when/where to get J a haircut and some new shorts
4. Pay bills *DONE*
5. Grocery store *DONE*

On My Prayer List

All the big and little kids graduating, my boss and her family (the co-director was her father), safe travels for the high school band on their upcoming trip, an end to COVID once and for all, peace, the world.

Quote For The Week

Gardening is cheaper than therapy and you get tomatoes.  (unknown)

Felt a bit like just another manic Monday (wish it was Sunday…are you singing yet?) around here. Oh, and random trivia before I get my actual post: Did you know that Prince wrote the song Manic Monday? Heard it on the radio a few weeks back. Please share any trivia winnings with me. Ha!

On to the weekly planning post where I join the link up hosted by Sandra over at Diary Of A Stay At Home Mom.

The Weather

Hot, hot, and hotter still. Was I wearing my winter coat last week? Highs in the 90’s most of this week with chances of rain for the weekend. It’s a bit windy out there right now, comfortable but I can feel the heat building.

As I Look Outside My Window

Clouds from the weekend are blowing away and the sun’s appeared. Wish I could stay home and play in my garden areas. However, it’s a working day.

Right Now I Am

working on this post while the laundry goes, I’ve just returned from the grocery store, and need to run up and grab my caramel macchiato (iced) from the kitchen counter before it turns watery.

Thinking And Pondering

Lots of things. Had a really nice Mother’s Day weekend, hope everyone else did as well. Of course, I’m paying a bit of the price for a lazy day yesterday. However, it was worth it for a nice low-key day. We just ordered in pizza, then went and got some rocks for my butterfly garden area. Main excitement came when I picked up one of the rocks and there was a baby copperhead (we think, very small but venomous head shape) underneath it. Gigantic wolf spider under a different one. YIKES! Glad I had on gloves. (I’ll share photos of the “new” area later probably in a separate post)

Homemaking Tips

I think of these during the week and then forget them when posting time comes along. Going to have to start writing them down.

How I Am Feeling This Morning

Motivated but tired. Didn’t sleep well. And then, J overslept but managed to get to school on time. Hooray!

On The Breakfast Plate

Lemon curd full milk yogurt (lots o’ protein), coffee, vitamins, apple cider vinegar tabs, and more coffee from the grocery store.

On My Reading Pile

Finished a really good non-fiction read over the weekend: Stolen Focus: Why You Can’t Pay Attention and How to Think Deeply Again by Johann Hari. Went ahead and reviewed it over on Good Reads.  Yesterday I started reading The Turn of the Key by Ruth Ware. I love Ruth Ware’s books but this wasn’t a great choice to start reading prior to bed. A bit scary for me though I’ll finish it.

On My TV

Better Call Saul, season finale of Masked Singer, not sure what else.

On The Menu

Dropped J off at school and went straight to the store this morning. Still trying to eat from freezer/pantry as much as we can.

MONDAY: chicken sausage, broccoli, orzo skillet *I work 12-5*

TUESDAY: Ham steaks, green beans, corn *I work 7:45-4:45*

WEDNESDAY: Likely out *J has 6:30a.m. band practice* *J has an appt at 3*

THURSDAY: Going to try the shrimp tacos Billie Jo from Afternoon Coffee and Evening Tea mentioned in her post last week.

FRIDAY: Freezer foraging day

From The Camera

Looking Around The House

Laundry mountain on bed, rest needs a bit of a clean, not awful but not great

On My To Do List

1. Organize bills to be paid
2. Fold all that laundry, ugh
3. Get some more outdoor plants/clean front porch/work on garden
4. Grocery store/DONE
5. Pick up things I forgot at Target last week plus look for some summer work clothes

On My Prayer List

Friend diagnosed with skin cancer, another friend having some family issues, co-director at my school, family, strangers. Health, peace, compassion, and kindness to overtake all the sickness and hatred that seems so prevalent in the world lately.

Quote For The Week

Not a quote this week but how can I not end my post with this iconic song? Sing along with me…

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Is it Monday or Tuesday? Is it March or is it May? 

Well, I know it’s Tuesday (worked yesterday so a day late with this) and that it’s indeed May. However, it sure feels a bit more like March around here. Cold and rainy. Woke up to hear our heat running as it was in the low 40’s.

Going to join in with Sandra and the other lovely bloggers over at Diary Of A Stay At Home Mom for the Happy Homemaker Monday, even if it is a Tuesday. Let’s just get straight to the categories.

The Weather

Cold, windy, off and on rainy. We did have a nice thunderstorm last night. And the weather on the news this morning promised a sunny weekend full of temps in the 80’s. Hope so!

As I Look Outside My Window

I saw a hummingbird this morning! There is hope. Of course, I wasn’t prepared as it’s been so cold. Hope he comes back since his feeder is out there now.

Right Now

Working on this post before I leave to go get my hair cut in about an hour.

Thinking and Pondering

It’s a very rare thing (luckily) but I somehow put the wrong dates down on my calendar at some point. Thought G’s band concert was tonight but it’s tomorrow. Turned things down because of it. My whole week feels kind of off now. However, everything worked out in the end.

Homemaking Tips

Whenever I use Clorox wipes, I always run out of wipes but still have a bunch of liquid left in the container. I always shove some paper towels in the container and shake it up to use every drop of the wipe fluid.

How I Am Feeling This Morning

A bit tired, the cat woke me up at 4:00a.m. this morning and then I got up and finally let her outside about half an hour later (she’s quite vocal when she doesn’t get her way). Normally, I’d just stay up but I fell back asleep on the couch and woke up with a start when the 5:30 alarm sounded.

On The Breakfast Plate

Boring oatmeal. I’ll probably go have some toast and take the vitamins I forgot later though. Yesterday, I had a new kind of yogurt (not the Flip stuff) that was cold brew coffee cream flavored. A new favorite!

On My Reading Pile

I’m on a bit of thriller kick. I’ve discovered a new (to me) author, B.A. Paris and have been reading through her books. Quick reads. The first, Bring Me Back, was mildly predictable but still fun. The second one, Behind Closed Doors was a bit darker but scary good. I’ll need to find the title of the next one, I’ve started reading the preview of it after Behind Closed Doors, hoping it’s a kindle unlimited read as well.

On My TV

My husband and I finished Ozark over the weekend. I found the ending completely unsatisfying but he didn’t mind it. We don’t do well watching tv series on Netflix together. I’m a want to know the name of the episodes, what episode I’m watching, how many are left in the season kind of person. He’s a just let the next episode load and watch it type. I wasn’t mentally prepared for the last episode to be the last one. He didn’t get it. Please tell me I’m not the only one who likes to know when  watching the last episode of something?

Also watching Better Call Saul, Masked Singer, and Moon Knight. Sometimes Fear the Walking Dead (I have to be in just the right mood/have it the right time of day-no night-time for zombie shows)

On The Menu

Found myself a little fed up with prices/things the grocery store didn’t have yesterday. I just want normal chicken breasts, not pre-cooked, not wings, just the normal bag. And for it not to cost a million dollars. Too tall an order in 2022 apparently. Ha! It’s see what’s here already week, I think.

MONDAY: Spaghetti *I worked 7-3:30* (and then went to the store)

TUESDAY: Chicken sausage, broccoli, and orzo pasta *I have a hair appt at 10:30**J now has an appt at 5*

WEDNESDAY: OUT (Subway per tradition) *J has a band concert at 7*

THURSDAY: Ham steaks, green beans and new potatoes, cornbread *I work 7-1:30*

FRIDAY: Maybe homemade pizza or shrimp or whatever else I dig out of freezer? No idea basically.

From The Camera

I made more of an effort to pick up the camera but with the weather, not much luck in photos.

Looking Around The House

Last Friday, I spent some time giving it a good cleaning, the kind you do with music blaring. However, it needs attention again today.

On My To Do List

More to do than I have time to do.

1. Pick up suet for suet feeder in backyard
2. Go get more flowers
3. Laundry (always)
4. Clean the house
5. Organize the bills, pay a couple that are due
6. Make sour cream softies (cookies) with sour cream that’s about to go bad, trying to be more frugal with what we have around here

   

7. Attempt violet jelly (I have the violets and the pectin, stay tuned for more info)
8. Target trip, need space saver bags for winter clothes along with the usual
9. Check calendar and confirm some work dates for summer
10. Other stuff I’ll think of after hitting publish on my post

On My Prayer List

Friend who just lost her father, friend diagnosed with skin cancer, co-director at my work who suffered cardiac arrest and is currently hospitalized in critical condition (and his family, so sad and scary as we just had a conversation about a week ago! A lot of Covid-19 complications, sigh). Family, strangers.  A healthier, more peaceful world.

Quote For The Week

It’s not what you look at that matters; it’s what you see. (Henry David Thoreau)

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Can you believe this is the last week in April?  I’m spending this last week of the month with a fairly full work schedule so I’m just going to get right into things this morning.

As always, I’ll be joining in with Sandra, our host, over at Diary Of A Stay At Home Mom.

The Weather

The weather continues to be up and down and even sideways here. The photo above was from one day last week when the sun was shining and it was raining all at once. We could just pick our weather depending on which direction we wanted to look.

After a warm weekend, it’s 45 degrees this morning and we’re under yet another frost advisory for overnight. I hope that’s the end of those! It’s back up in the upper 60’s/low 70’s for the second half of the week.

As I Look Outside My Window

I see birds at the feeders and spring flowers finally blooming. Plus blue skies and sunshine!

Right Now

A bit of laundry and trying to get this post up before I head off to work at noon.

Thinking and Pondering

The weather warmed up and so I’m pretty much focused on the outdoors right now. I have too many projects going but picking just one is a struggle. Front porch? Flower garden beside it? Vegetable garden? Adding a garden in front of the porch? New garden area in back yard? And on and on my mind spins.

Homemaking Tips

Not sure if I’ve shared this before but I’ve found storing kitchen storage containers with the lids on makes such a huge difference. No pile of random lids falling on my head. An automatic control on the cabinet filling with too many containers (my husband never met a take out container he didn’t want to keep, drives me nuts!).

How I Am Feeling This Morning 

Not too bad. After feeling under the weather most of last week, I had lots of energy for the weekend and it’s spilled over into today.

On The Breakfast Plate

Oatmeal, water, coffee, vitamins.

On My Reading Pile

After finishing The Betrayal of Anne Frank by Rosemary Sullivan, I was quite shocked to find it was a very controversial book.  Mainly because of the conclusion that likely another Jewish person had been the betrayer in an effort to save his own family. Apparently, there were concerns it was anti-semantic .And that the publisher had apologized, removing it from the shelves in many countries. I thought it was well-written and researched and did not get that vibe from it at all (the last 20 percent of the book was nothing but footnotes/bibliography material many times listing the number of people killed in the various concentration camps).

After all that, I picked a lighter read for my next choice. Alison Sherlock never disappoints and I enjoyed a much needed return visit to Cranbridge in The Village of Happy Ever Afters.

On My TV

Probably not much tv watching this week. Masked Singer, Just Call Me Kat, Moon Knight on Disney+, catching up on Fear the Walking Dead, and also watching Better Call Saul on AMC+.

On The Menu

I had lots of inspiration at the grocery store yesterday and was making a mental list of meals while shopping. Unfortunately, I’ve forgotten it already. Let’s see if it comes back to me.

MONDAY: Leftovers/whatever is in freezer (we had roast yesterday) *I work 12-5:30* *J has a lesson at 6:30*

TUESDAY: Lasagna *I work 7-3:30*

WEDNESDAY: Ham steaks, cornbread, salad *I work 7-3:30*

THURSDAY: Pepper steak maybe? *I work 12-3:45*

FRIDAY: Probably OUT *I work 3-6*

From The Camera

I didn’t really pick up the camera over the weekend as I was busy doing yard work. So with the exception of the rainbow, all the other photos in this post are from this morning.

Looking Around The House

I still don’t want to do that! It’s not terrible but I spent too much time outside doing other things this weekend. Like feeling this Lamb’s Ear plant. I might have a new front porch favorite!

On My To Do List

Tried to do a few things over the weekend as I knew this would be a busier week. Not making a super long list at all for this week.

1. Laundry
2. Figure out when my next hair appt is scheduled
3. Check kitchen pantry for ants (don’t really want to do this but thought I saw one)
4. Write and mail a letter
5. Sort out winter/early spring clothes and switch for late spring/summer clothes
6. Continue to research plants/flowers for garden areas

On My Prayer List

A friend recently diagnosed with skin cancer who is struggling with the news, friends, family, strangers. The people of Ukraine. The continued receding and a disappearance of the Covid-19 virus. A return to a kinder, gentler world. Peace.

Quote For The Week

Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord. See to it that no one falls short of the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many. (Hebrews 12: 14-15)

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We had a good, cold, and rainy Easter. Really, I wondered if perhaps I was supposed to be saying Happy Thanksgiving or Merry Christmas. These freeze warnings are getting old. However, the sun is out and shining brightly today so let’s just get to planning the week.

Joining in as always with Sandra of Diary Of A Stay At Home Mom who hosts this wonderful link up.

The Weather

Wishing spring would just get here already. It was a chilly weekend and we woke up to freeze warnings and mid 30’s. Same for tomorrow. Highs in the 50’s today. Can’t remember the last time we had to run our heat over night this late in April. It’s currently 41 degrees and sunny. Supposed to hit the 60’s later in the week with a few rain chances.

As I Look Out My Window

In the basement, the sun is coming in strong through the privacy glass. Outside the back door, the clouds are clearing off, the birds are busy, and it’s still a bit wet from yesterday’s rain.

Right Now

Trying to get this post done quickly as I work later this afternoon.

Thinking And Pondering

I missed hosting Easter brunch yesterday (3rd year in row we didn’t host it). However, it wasn’t all bad considering that it was cold and rained all day, Easter with a large group is always nicer when you can spread outside. Planning (no promises) on a post about our Easter, maybe tomorrow. *update: you can read about our Easter holiday here* The holidays continue to look different as our kids get older. Trying to figure all that out. Wondering when a good time might be to try and have family over for an non-occasion.

Homemaking Tips

Had one but I can’t think of it. Maybe it will come back to me as I type up the rest of this post.

How I Am Feeling This Morning

Tired, not feeling 100%. Think it’s allergies or sinus, my nose was running a bit last night (took a Covid test just in case but thankfully, that was negative) Would kind of like to go back to bed but think I’ll be fine.

On The Breakfast Plate

Oatmeal, coffee, vitamins, apple cider vinegar tabs, and black elderberry syrup. Plus a few white chocolate pretzels (Easter leftovers)

On My Reading Pile

Currently, I’m reading The Betrayal of Anne Frank, A Cold Case Investigation by Rosemary Sullivan. Just started it yesterday but I can tell it’s going to be a very interesting non-fiction read. Over last week/the weekend, I read a couple of Heather Gudenkauf books. A new to me suspense/horror author. I enjoyed The Overnight Guest as it was twisty and while a bit predictable at the end, still a good read. This Is How I Lied, not as good and just didn’t do much for me. I also read The Lost Apothecary by Sarah Penner and enjoyed it very much.

On My TV

Masked Singer, Moon Knight on Disney +. Watched a couple of Netflix movies over the weekend. From their “90 minute movies” category, I watched The Cleaner. A good, basic suspenseful movie. And then, I watched The Adam Project, enjoyable but I doubt it would be as good without Ryan Reynolds.

On The Menu

I’m really not sure. Not going to the store today because of my work schedule/J’s lesson so probably going to try to pull things out of the fridge/freezer for this week.

MONDAY: Maybe pork chops? With Easter Leftovers *I work 12-3:45* *J has a lesson at 6:30*

TUESDAY: Korean meatballs, rice *J has an appt at 3*

WEDNESDAY: No idea?

THURSDAY: ????

FRIDAY: Out?

From The Camera

Looking Around The House

Pass.

On My To Do List

1. Work
2. Pay Bills
3. Laundry
4. Grocery Store
5. Outside stuff
6. Sort out some work dates (In progress)

On My Prayer List

Friends, Family, Strangers. A friend who just got some unsettling news regarding her health. The people of Ukraine. The World. Peace.

Quote For The Week

All my hurts, my garden spade can heal. (Ralph Waldo Emerson)

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Since I had a full work day yesterday followed by J’s lesson, today is Happy Homemaker Tuesday around here.  Of course, I’ll be linking my post to Sandra from Diary Of A Stay At Home Mom, the host of Happy Homemaker Monday, even on this Tuesday.

We had a weekend with really nice weather and managed to get a few things done around the yard. Finally, got rid of some junk that’d been taking up real estate in the backyard for much too long. Excited to get back a planting area at the back of the house. It’s all shaded in the morning with just a bit of afternoon sun so I’m still in the research phase of how I’m going to fill it. Right now, it holds a single bleeding heart plant. I planted it last spring to claim the free space in the area. Excited that it returned and bloomed again this spring!

The Weather

We’ve had some picture perfect spring days. Chilly mornings followed by warm “no jacket needed” afternoons. However, today is gray and cloudy with a wind advisory. Chances of severe storms later tonight into tomorrow. And it’s supposed to dip back into the 30’s for overnights later this week. Thankfully, the daytime highs all stay above 45 degrees.

As I Look Outside My Window

Can’t see out this basement window as it’s covered in privacy stuff. However, I think judging by the brightness that the sun might’ve just made an appearance for a moment. Maybe it’ll stick around. I was hoping to get the garden tilled prior to the wind advisory and storms.

Thinking And Pondering

All the outside projects I’d like to complete. Picture day at school tomorrow (I’m helping) and hoping the rain/storms are gone by the time I’m shuffling kids between their classrooms and the picture area. Taking a vacation or even just a weekend get away soon. It’s much needed.

Homemaking Tips

Don’t store potatoes and onions together. Just learned this thanks to the Farmer’s Almanac. I have them in separate bins but I do wonder if I still might have mine a bit too close together as our potatoes seem to turn pretty fast around here.

How I Am Feeling This Morning

Tired, a bit frustrated (had planned on cleaning today but it turns out everyone is home with me, makes it harder to clean with everyone underfoot). Honestly, a little down as well.

On The Breakfast Plate

Oatmeal (the new usual) and croissant. Coffee. Forgot to take my vitamins. Better do that when I finish up here.

On My Reading Pile

Had a book from my library e-book hold pile come up so I read The Lying Game by Ruth Ware over the weekend. I really enjoy her twisty suspense novels. The setting was as interesting as the story in this one, however, I don’t think it was my favorite of all the ones I’ve read. And I also finished Don’t Look For Me by Wendy Walker, a skip the line loan. The story was engaging and yet forgettable. I enjoyed it but her writing didn’t really leave me wanting to read more. And finally, I’m still slowly working my way through the Will Robie series of David Baldacci books. I’m on book 5, End Game.

On My TV

When I’m not reading, I’ve been either at work or outside mostly. I did watch The Greatest Showman again on Friday night. And I’m enjoying Moon Knight on Disney plus. Masked Singer, Don’t Call Me Kat, sometimes I watch The Good Doctor if I happen to catch it. Probably other things but nothing too memorable. Happened to catch The Masters on Sunday and watched the end of that (I usually don’t watch golf).

On The Menu

I’m at a loss this week. Might be a wing it kind of week, those tend to go well. We seem to have gone through our rotation and then some. SIGH. Let’s see…

MONDAY: We had deli chicken *I worked 8:15-4:45* *J had a lesson at 6:30*

TUESDAY: pork chops, baked potato, asparagus

WEDNESDAY: Korean BBQ meatballs, rice *I work 7-1*

THURSDAY: Italian chicken recipe from last week

FRIDAY: Shrimp, either honey garlic or scampi or we’ll just go out

From The Camera

Dreaming of a finished front porch garden area Get to work, lady!

Looking Around The House

Needs a good cleaning, maybe tomorrow. Sad to say I didn’t really decorate for Easter this year.

On My To Do List

1. Laundry
2. Work on the garden areas of yard if weather allows
3. Visit garden centers to get ideas for new backyard areas (try not to buy all the plants and flowers)
4. Mail some Easter cards
5. Get out the calendar and plan a weekend getaway, maybe just to a local state park

On My Prayer List

My sister in law & her family as one of their dogs passed away last night, friends, family, strangers, the country, the world.

Quote For The Week

Where flowers bloom so does hope. (Lady Bird Johnson)

Today is the only day I’m home all day and not working this week. A pretty busy schedule for me the rest of the week. Hopefully, I’ll do better about popping on here and visiting. Sorry I missed visiting a few of you last week! Sometimes the weeks just get away from me.

However, look, I’m actually posting on time (sort of, it’s afternoon now) this week! Joining in with Sandra from Diary Of A Stay At Home Mom to plan my week.

The Weather

It’s definitely spring weather with temperatures all over the place. I’m hoping for a solid week of warm temps soon. However, this week is warm to start and then chilly to end. Kind of the same as last week. Decent chances of rain tomorrow and Wednesday as well. That’s okay because we all know that April showers bring those wonderful May flowers (and green grass on the ground and leaves on the trees!)

As I Look Out My Window

Today’s a warm one with pretty blue skies and not too much wind. Started chilly out there but did warm up quickly. These little fellows won’t be hanging out with us too much longer.

Right Now

Taking a few minutes to work on this post and trying to ignore a long list of things I *should* be doing.

Thinking and Pondering

Too much. Ants, a vacation, J’s issues, what to do with the yard, life in general.

Homemaking Tips

We were having a horrible time with one of bathroom drains stinking and nothing was working, the baking soda, hot water, etc. I found these things called Sanisticks at our local Bed, Bath, and Beyond and they solved the problem! (The link is Amazon but they are much cheaper in stores). Hmm, the reviews show they don’t work for everyone but they worked great for us.

How I Am Feeling This Morning (Afternoon)

Tired. Been a bit of a bumpy Monday morning.

On The Breakfast Plate

Strawberry and cream instant oatmeal, coffee. Just a note: I tried the protein added instant oatmeal packets and found it disgusting!

On My Reading Pile

Just working my way through a David Baldacci series, currently reading The Target (Will Robie, #3)

On My TV

My husband and I watched an awful Liam Neeson movie on Netflix Friday night, A Walk Among the Tombstones. I’d have rather just watched Taken again. Masked Singer, a bit of American Idol. A couple other movies: Shrek Forever After. Much better than the 3rd one. And finally, G and I watched a pretty funny movie called The Bubble, a movie about making a movie during the pandemic.

On The Menu

Struggling with the planning this week as I feel like I went through all our standby meals last week.

MONDAY: ham steaks, corn bread, and broccoli *J has a baritone lesson at 6:30*

TUESDAY: BLT salads with turkey (from freezer) *I work 10-4:30* *J has an appt at 3*

WEDNESDAY: Hamburgers and French Fries (husband is cooking, he just doesn’t know it) *I work 10-4:30*

THURSDAY: Mozzarella Chicken with Tomato Sauce and Mushrooms (trying new recipe) *I work 10-4:30*

FRIDAY: French Toast, Fish, OUT? *I work 7:45-4:15*

From The Camera

Looking Around The House

I did that and had to clean up a bit before starting this post! It’s better but still needs attention.

On My To Do List

Really, just get through the week but I’m hoping I can cross a few other things off the list

1. Grocery store (DONE)
2. Clean up house a bit (In progress)
3. Laundry (Also, in progress)
4. Serious clean up of main bathroom (the ants found us, UGH)
5. Fix bricks by flower garden at end of the driveway
6. Forgot to call trash company about yard waste last week, still need to do it
7. Take pictures with camera
8. Gather stuff for junk drop off put on by city this weekend (check prices again)

On My Prayer List

Friends, Family, Strangers. Someone who unexpectedly lost her new kitten last week. The country, the world.

Quote For The Week

I must have flowers, always, and always. (Claude Monet)

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Talk about March madness. Where did this month go? It almost feels like an early April joke that it starts this Friday. Or is it just me?

As usual, I’m late again. I had good intentions (we all know where those lead) and had started this post briefly on Sunday but…now, it’s Wednesday. Let’s just get to it.

And as always,  I’m linking up with Sandra, our host, over at Diary Of A Stay At Home Mom.

The Weather

Might be the end of the month but we’re getting typical March weather. Hot, cold, sunny, rainy, and everything in between. Yesterday by late afternoon it was warm, partly cloudy, and windy. The day had started quite chilly, however. Last night overnight we had thunderstorms. And they’ve mentioned that bad “s” word for Thursday, just a bit though thank goodness. Today is cloudy, misting rain, and supposed to turn chilly again for the afternoon.  Coat on. Coat off.  SIGH. So very ready for continual no coat weather.

As I Look Out My Window

I see empty bird feeders as I’ve not had a chance (or the time and energy) to go get more birdseed. More patches of green on the wet ground, and cloudy skies.

Right Now

Doing a little laundry and trying to get this post up before I head into work later this morning.

Thinking And Pondering

The ups and downs of the week so far, my work schedule-what it will look like for the rest of the year and this summer.

Homemaking Tips

I use essential oils quite a bit for things like the laundry, making the bathroom smell better (I put a few drops in the toilet paper roll), and cleaning (I use them when cleaning our masks). Once the bottles appear empty, I’ve found I can stretch them a bit by taking the tops off and filling them with water, then giving them a shake. It won’t be as strong but you’ll still smell the oil.

How I Am Feeling This Morning

Tired. We had storms overnight and while they didn’t wake me up, I didn’t sleep well at all. Including dreaming we all overslept right as the alarm went off. And there was a talking cat in there as well, probably because our lovely cat was busy meowing at me to get up and do her bidding. SIGH.

On The Breakfast Plate

Still on the oatmeal kick, maple and brown sugar instant oatmeal and coffee. Also, water, apple cider vinegar tablets, and vitamins.

On My Reading Pile

My turn for The Winemaker’s Wife came up at the library so I read that last week. Really enjoyed it though as typical for Kristin Harmel books, the reviews were all loved it or hated it. I kind of understood the hate it reviews this time as some of the characters seemed pretty shallow although I thought that made it more interesting (it’s another WWII setting, this time in the Champagne region of France). A book I read and did not think was all that great was Ready Player Two by Ernest Cline. Game over as far as me reading any more if there’s another book in that series (I don’t see it but who knows). And finally, I read The Innocent by David Baldacci, another “I don’t have to think to much to read this” but it’s still enjoyable type thriller novel, first in a long series.

On My TV

Not too much, caught up on The Walking Dead. Watched the first episode of Daredevil. Masked Singer. Some of the NCAA tournament, disappointed the Peacocks lost, now I’ll have to cheer for KU. Oh and I did happen to watch some of The Oscars on Sunday night so I saw “the slap.”

On The Menu

Pretty full working week for me so keeping things pretty basic.

MONDAY: We had porkchops, baked potatoes, and asparagus *I worked 8:15-3:45*

TUESDAY: We had pepper steak and rice *I worked 8:15-4:30*

WEDNESDAY: Some type of chicken. Maybe chicken strips or depending on how the days goes I might just make tacos *I work 10-4:30*

THURSDAY: Roast in the crock pot *I work 10-4:30*

FRIDAY: Tacos or chicken, whatever I don’t make today or maybe OUT

From The Camera

Looking Around The House

Maybe I’ll get it cleaned properly over the weekend, not going to happen today.

On My To Do List

1. Get birdseed and refill bird feeders
2. Laundry (in progress)
3. Work
4. Take a nap?!
5. Call new trash company to find out their yard waste rates

On My Prayer List

Family, friends, strangers. Hope, healing, and peace for the world.

Quote For The Week

Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. (Proverbs 3:5)

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Happy Spring! I’m so happy it is finally here. I really do try my best to embrace fall and winter. Recently, I’ve even come to appreciate those seasons. However, spring and soon to follow summer just fill my spirits with such happiness.

I’ve already done a few chores and run a few errands this morning and now am taking a break to put up my post for Happy Homemaker Monday, hosted by Sandra over at Diary Of A Stay At Home Mom. These posts really do help me stay on track and I enjoy very much visiting all the other bloggers who join.

The Weather

After a beautiful and warm (!) sunny weekend, rain is supposed to start this afternoon and be here the next couple days. I don’t mind. We need the rain (Still a fire ban/red flag warning until March 23). It’s supposed to dip down into the 30’s a few days. Then, the sun and warm weather returns. Probably with a lot more green grass and flowers on the ground!

As I Look Outside My Window

Grackles taking over my bird feeders, squirrels chasing them away, tiny bits of green and spring flowers pushing through the ground. Also, a pretty sunrise this morning.

Right Now

Laundry in progress, wondering when the boys are going to get out of bed (soon, hopefully, as it’s noon), and working on this post.

Thinking and Pondering

Spring always puts me in get healthy mode. Probably because as I switch out clothing I realize it’s all a bit snug (understatement). Trying to figure out the best diet (ugh) to work with the family (making 2 meals at a time is not for me). Noticed there is a new gym going in about a mile down the road, might look into that when they open. Just need to do something. Have a few ideas that I’m “thinking and pondering” in my mind.

Homemaking Tips

Not sure it’s a practical tip but I found the best way to clean a ceiling fan. Two ways really. One: Just get rid of it! Two: take it down off the ceiling and clean it.  Also, the old adage of shop your house first goes in here as well. Spring cleaning the kitchen a tiny bit on Saturday led to us taking down the ceiling fan over the kitchen table, replacing it with another led light and then, taking down the rather dated ceiling fan in the living room replacing it with the white one from the kitchen. Made a huge difference. And the Dawn Spray Dish Soap is great for cleaning off the blades (if the fan is down off the ceiling).

How I Am Feeling This Morning/Afternoon

Optimistic and in the mood to get things done.

On The Breakfast Plate

Maple Brown Sugar Oatmeal, coffee, apple cider vinegar tabs, vitamins, water.

On My Reading Pile

Mainly just reading through the David Baldacci series with Amos Decker, I’m on book 6 titled Walk the Wire. Though my library hold of The Winemaker’s Wife by Kristin Harmel just came through. Probably going to DNF (did not finish) most other books on my pile, the Joshua Becker one, the memoir of Hillary Clinton’s aide (just wasn’t holding my attention), and some other random library books included.

On My TV

Masked Singer, still trying Outlander but it’s losing me a bit in season 3, and for fun, I watched Highlander (you know have to go through all the “lander” shows) last night. I did enjoy it, probably more than the Outlander series to be honest. If I can get the AMC+ app to work, I might catch up a bit on Walking Dead while folding laundry.

On The Menu

Always a bit tricky to plan during spring break weeks. Just throwing ideas here and then, if I have to move them around, I’ll still have the stuff to make dinners another time.

MONDAY: Chicken sausage, broccoli, and orzo skillet (found this while browsing a magazine last week) *J has a baritone lesson at 6:30*

TUESDAY: Chili (By request), also planning to make a vegetarian chili and freeze in individual portions for my lunches *J has an appt at either 2 or 3pm*

WEDNESDAY: Pulled Pork in crock pot *I work 8:30-5*

THURSDAY: Hamburgers/hot dogs and French Fries

FRIDAY: Fish, coleslaw, asparagus

*Probably be some OUT meals in there somewhere since it is spring break*

From The Camera

Looking Around The House

I’m in spring cleaning mode so it’s a bit frustrating to look around the house as I keep seeing things I need to do. It needs cleaned before it can even be spring cleaned. Hard to do with people underfoot but eventually, it’ll get there.

On My To Do List

1. This post
2. Grocery Store *DONE*
3. Laundry *In progress*
4. Cut up fruits/veggies for week
5. Wash kitchen cabinets with Murphy’s Oil Soap (Floor as well if I have time)
6. Start the cat grass seeds I picked up yesterday
7. Take back library books (cringe, yes, the overdue ones from last week)
8. Send a couple letters

On My Prayer List

A good friend having knee replacement surgery this week, all the spring break people to have safe and fun ones, the people of Ukraine as well as those of Russia who oppose the war but are unable to speak out for fear of repercussions against their families, family, strangers.

Quote For The Week

Never underestimate the healing power of a moment in the garden

(Josephine Albert)

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Yesterday just wasn’t great. A lot of issues with J just left me a bit too emotionally drained to even put together a coherent post. Thankfully, this morning was better.

So, here I am again on a Tuesday. Better late than never? And it’s my Spring break at work! We’re actually celebrating 3 spring breaks in a row around here. Unfortunately, not much overlap. My break is this week. J’s is next week (though they also get Friday), and then G has the following week. My poor husband doesn’t get one.

Late to the party but still linking up with Sandra over at Diary Of A Stay At Home Mom.

The Weather

Spring’s trying! Sunny days most of the week with highs near 60. Chilly start today as it’s currently 43 degrees but supposed to warm up quickly after lunch. Slight chance of rain on Thursday, still much needed as we’re in drought conditions. Okay with it as long as the wintry mix they hinted at on the news skips out on us.

As I Look Outside My Window

I see sunshine, a bunch of front porch plants and a yard in need of tending. Hoping to get out there later today.

Right Now

Working on this post in efforts to put off chores  (cleaning, paying bills, etc.)

Thinking and Pondering

Too much to share. Here I’ll share the lighter things on my mind:  I’d like to use my spring break to do some much needed spring cleaning and refreshing around here. Easter is also on my mind a bit. The garden areas of the front porch and yard.

Homemaking Tips

I’ve been adding a few drops of lemon and lavender oils to the washer when washing the bedding. Makes them smell so good!

How I Am Feeling

Tired. Trying to push through some depressing and defeatist thinking.

On The Breakfast Plate

I’ve switched over from yogurt to oatmeal each morning. I haven’t compared it officially to my flip yogurts but I noticed I feel a bit better with the oatmeal breakfast. Also, apple cider vinegar tablets, vitamins, water (as well as coffee!)

On My Reading Pile

I’ve slowed down on my reading a bit. Still working on The Fix (Amos Decker #3) by David Baldacci. Also, need to decide if I want to renew or return The Minimalist Home: A Room by Room Guide by Joshua Becker. (All my library books are a couple days overdue!)

On My TV

Sigh, no more Joe Millionaire. Read where one of the couples is already no more. It was a fun show though. And now, I’m more excited than I should be to see The Masked Singer is back. As are The Flash and DC Legends of Tomorrow, both of which I just watch on the CW app. Finally, I caved and started watching Outlander on Netflix after Carrie from Northwoods Scrapbook suggested it. Two episodes in and I wasn’t sure but another friend encouraged me to stick with it a bit longer. Now, I’m on season 3. Honestly, I still have mixed feelings as it’s not my usual type of show (Time travel stuff? Yes. Period drama? Not so much) but I do love the scenery and music of it!

On The Menu

Not overly exciting this week.

MONDAY: We had tacos and I baked a (store bought) apple pie for pi day

TUESDAY: Chicken and spinach skillet, rice

WEDNESDAY: OUT probably Subway *J has a school band concert*

THURSDAY: Irish Bacon and Cabbage Soup, homemade brown bread, Lucky Charms bars *St Patrick’s Day*

FRIDAY: Freezer Frenzy (Need to clean out some already cooked items in the freezer)

From The Camera

Still sorely lacking in this department. With the exception of the dove photo further below, all the pictures from this morning just for this post.

Looking Around The House

There’s a reason I want to spend my week spring cleaning, the entire house needs it!

To Do List

• pay bills
• Spring cleaning (might make a post with an outline of the tasks to keep me on track)
• E-mail J’s teachers (I’m skipping parent-teacher conferences this week as I didn’t think I could hold it together 7 times in a row with everything that’s been going on (some of them already know the anxiety info anyway), e-mail felt safer)
• Write/send a letter
• Yard work and enjoy the beautiful spring weather

On My Prayer List

The people of Ukraine, an end to the horrific war (I made the mistake of watching the world news one night and could not contain the tears as they told the stories of the millions of refugees, so many of them children!), family, friends, strangers. A kinder, peaceful, and healed world.

Quote For The Week

I need to end this post on a lighter note with thoughts back on spring flowers and green yards. I get a “Daily Moment of Happiness” e-mail from Gretchen Rubin and she shared this quote in it last Tuesday. It just spoke to me:

I shall never have the garden I have in my mind, but that for me is the joy of it; certain things can never be realized and so all the more reason to attempt them. (Jamaica Kincaid) 

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