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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So last night we had rain, hail, thunder & lightening, all followed by a tiny bit of snow. Oh, and now it’s cold again. Thankfully, not bitter cold. Just average winter cold but I’m ready for those warmer days to stick around for good. I’m ready for sitting on a sunny front porch surrounded by blooming flowers.

However, for now, I’ll sit inside and continue to dream of those days while joining in with Sandra over at Diary Of A Stay At Home Mom for another Happy Homemaker Monday. (And look two in a row for me posting on an actual Monday!)

The Weather

Already mentioned it a bit to start my post. Cold. Snow on the ground (though not much and the roads were fine when I went grocery shopping). It’s supposed to get back into the upper 40’s/low 50’s tomorrow and Wednesday before we get another chance of more snowfall on Thursday into Friday. While I don’t necessarily want the snow, we do actually need something wet (I’d prefer rain) to soak into our ground around here.

As I Look Outside My Window 

This is a cheater picture as it’s from early Sunday morning (prior to our weird weather) but I was so excited to see a goldfinch at my feeder! Today I’ve seen mainly cardinals, snowbirds, and sparrows. And of course the Carolina wren pictured above (though not at the feeders).

Right Now I Am

Freezing! And wondering why as it’s usually a bit warmer in the basement from a heater we have down here. I’m about to go check and see if the pilot light on it might be out or if it’s just cold here by the window. (Heat is going strong, must be cold because I’m by the outside wall/window)

Thinking And Pondering

Wondering about J, we had a full diagnosis type appointment at the therapist office on Friday (so many surveys and questions and I still have one that came via e-mail to complete). Hoping, however, it gives us answers so he can feel better. Of course, everything always takes so much time. Pondering that. 4-6 weeks for answers. Not their fault, we’re in line…lots of people needing help these days. And of course, hoping the answers are simple and not scary. I don’t expect them to be scary but all of this is a new experience and while I can kind of guess the answers, I’m waiting for the experts. Also, thinking I probably should be reading something other than a nonfiction book that’s an account of several sons in a family suffering mental illness.

Homemaking Tips

I got nothing.

How I Am Feeling Today

Well, in one of those only I could manage it moments, I pulled my inner thigh muscle (or maybe a ligament) while kicking the recliner part of our loveseat last week. The chair gets stuck when reclined and I *possibly* kicked too hard in trying to get it to go back. I spent all of Saturday (bummer, too as it was a nice day) resting and elevating my leg. Felt better but now I’ve walked on it a bit too much and it hurts again. Stairs are not very fun, going down isn’t bad but the trip back up them is a bit brutal. Otherwise, I feel okay.

On The Breakfast Plate

Boring as always, oatmeal, coffee, water, and vitamins

On My Reading Pile

Usually, I don’t do this but I have 3 books in rotation. Hidden Valley Road: Inside the Mind of an American Family by Robert Kolker. The one about mental illness, I’m not very far into it as it just popped up yesterday but it is interesting, one of my skip the line library loans. The Fix by David Baldacci, the 3rd and final installment in the Amos Decker series. It’s not really holding my attention well but I plan to finish it at some point. Finally, since the Baldacci book wasn’t holding my attention on Friday, I started reading Both/And by Huma Abedin. I thought it was just a memoir when I started it but I guess she was one of Hillary Clinton’s aides. The part about her background was very interesting, I’ve just hit the part where she’s starting her career in politics, hoping it doesn’t get overwhelmingly political as I read on.

On My TV

So since I sat and rested my leg on Saturday, I did watch a bit o’ TV. The Dropout on Hulu is very good. Then annoyed as season 1 was only 3 episodes, I switched over and watched The Inventor: Out for Blood in Silicon Valley on HBO Max, also very good. (And if you’ve not read the book Bad Blood by John Carreyrou, start with that. I read it last year or maybe in 2019). Staying in a documentary mood, I also watched on HBO Max, Gaming Wall Street about the GameStop stock controversy. Definitely worth your time. And then just for fun, I started playing catch up with D.C. Legends of Tomorrow. This week will be more of that along with the finale of Joe Millionaire on Thursday!

On The Menu

Struggling with my menu planning today.

MONDAY: Might be an OYO kind of night. Leftover roast, leftover taco meat, etc. *J has a baritone lesson at 6:30*

TUESDAY: Pork chops, baked potatoes, salad

WEDNESDAY: Pepper chicken? (Like pepper steak but I’m making it with chicken)

THURSDAY: Spaghetti or Korean meatballs, undecided

FRIDAY: Possibly BBQ shrimp (we have a seasoning packet) or maybe something else *J has an appointment at 3*

Sat/Sun: Chili?/Homemade pizza

From The Camera

The Carolina Wren singing its song

Looking Around The House

I did clean off the kitchen table this morning (really cleared it completely). That’s about all I accomplished.

On My To Do List

1. This Post (almost done)
2. Clean off kitchen table DONE
3. Grocery store DONE
4. A bit of laundry
5. Start cantaloupe and honeydew seeds DONE
6. Finish survey from therapist office

On My Prayer List

Friend who just lost her brother, and now her uncle. The people of Ukraine. An end to the ridiculous war over there/peace in the world. Family, friends, strangers.

Quote For The Week

I smiled when I read this in the current issue of Better Homes and Gardens magazine. It’s so very true in this area.

Well, it’s Monday night but I’m still back to posting on a Monday (finally)! The first two months of the year feel so foggy and distant already but I’m so glad for a brand, new fresh month tomorrow! 

Since it is late on Monday, I’m just going to get straight to the categories. Joining in with Sandra over at Diary Of A Stay At Home Mom as always.

The Weather

Beautiful! The end of last week was cold and snowy. However, the snow is almost all melted and our week is full of high 50’s and 60’s sometimes upper 60’s even. Think a slight chance of rain for the weekend. March is coming in like a lamb for sure.

How I’m Feeling

Okay. Really wasn’t the best Monday as it was a rough day for anxiety with J. However, we’ll just try again tomorrow. New month, fresh start. 

On The Breakfast Plate

Strawberry blueberry instant oatmeal. Glad it was the last packet! I thought it was packets of two flavors when I bought it but no, they were combined. Not my favorite. Coffee, water, vitamins.

On My Reading Pile

Still reading away, too much to escape. Read another Kristin Harmel over the weekend, The Forest of Vanishing Stars. Very good historical fiction work about the Jewish people hiding in the forests during WWII. Invisible Girl by Lisa Jewell was creepy good as was Dark, Dark Wood by Ruth Ware (both kept me guessing to the end). And for a little lightness, Spring Blooms at the Hummingbird Hotel by Daisy James didn’t disappoint.

On My TV

We watched The King’s Man one day last week (not my pick), it was long but okay.  And I watched Free Guy by myself on Friday. I enjoyed it a lot! Planned to watch Defiance as the Kristin Harmel book afterward mentioned it but all these streaming services and is it on any of the ones we have? No. No, it is not. Grumble. I’ll of course, also watch Joe Millionaire on Thursday.

(Not on my TV but we did go to an actual movie theater (!!) to finally see Spiderman: No Way Home. Enjoyed that. We were also the only ones in that movie.)

On The Menu

Pretty basic week here. Gordon Ramsay’s quick and delicious menu item was a dud so I gave another chicken recipe a try tonight. It was okay. Everyone else seemed to enjoy the carrot side dish but I personally, did not. Cooked carrots aren’t my thing.

MONDAY: Bacon wrapped chicken, carrots in a sweet sauce (honey, chicken stock, butter)

TUESDAY: Pancakes

WEDNESDAY:  ?? Maybe out *I work 8:30-6*

THURSDAY: Roast in the crock pot *I work 3-6*

FRIDAY: Shrimp/Fish/Asparagus/Garlic Toast *J has appointment at 9*

From The Camera

I’ve been pretty lazy with the camera especially about changing out the zoom and regular lens. The zoom is on their often when I need the regular. Last week was also a little dreary with the weather near the weekend.

Looking Around The House

Lots I needed to do today just didn’t get done. Maybe it’ll look better tomorrow.

On My To Do List

1. Go to store (DONE)
2. This post (In progress)
3. Finish up laundry
4. Take care of a couple e-mails
5. Check Spring Break dates on calendar
6. Everything else I’m forgetting

Quote For The Week

I go to nature to be soothed, healed and have my senses put in order. (John Burroughs)

I promise to get back to posting these on Mondays. Soon. I had good intentions yesterday but then, it was a holiday. And the grocery store was offering an incredible discount on gas that I couldn’t miss (Temperature on Sunday was 57 degrees so that’s how many cents off a gallon with that amount of purchase!). Plus, the weather. Oh, the beautiful, glorious and now, frustrating weather.

More about the weather coming up shortly. As always, joining in with Sandra over at Diary Of At A Stay At Home Mom. I’m so grateful she doesn’t close her link up on Monday nights and gives us slackers a chance to join in the fun as well.

The Weather

Were we talking about the weather? Oh, yes. So, we’ve had a serious snow storm (7.5 inches!) last Thursday, followed by 57 degrees on Sunday, almost 70 degrees (yes, you read that right) yesterday.

And today, it’s in the low 20’s with freezing rain and temperatures falling. Back to the low 40’s for the later half of our week. And creeping back to the 60’s (maybe) again next week. Chance of something again this Thursday. Honestly, I’m ready for a new ride. Let’s try the one labeled spring. I know, get in line, huh?

How I Am Feeling This Morning

See rant about weather. I have spring fever. And I didn’t sleep great so I’m tired. However, I’m motivated to get some procrastinated items off the to-do list today.

On The Breakfast Plate

A switch! I’ve been on an oatmeal kick and actually so has my husband. Much better than his usual breakfast of toaster strudels or bacon and Eggo waffles.  I don’t like that he’s eating all my instant oatmeal packets. Good thing I bought more at the store yesterday. Also, coffee. Just realized I forgot to take my vitamins. Better do that.

On My Reading Pile

Still going through quite a few books. (Just a reminder note: I read very fast and probably procrastinated quite a few tasks while reading these books) The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah was very good and pretty emotional, I think I preferred The Four Winds, however. I do now know that Alaska is definitely not on my places I’d like to live list. The Woman in Cabin 10 by Ruth Ware was a good, twisty murder (maybe?) mystery that kept me guessing. And Mercy by David Baldacci brought the Atlee Pine series to a satisfying close. It’s the first set of his books I’d ever read and see he has written quite a few. I’d give more of his books a chance.

That said of all the books I’ve read over the past week (into this one, remember I had 2 snow days in there!), the one I’d suggest over all the others is The Book of Lost Names by Kristin Harmel. WWII historical fiction isn’t usually my thing but this one sucked me in from the very first page. I noticed from the Goodreads reviews, it’s a love it or hate it kind of story but I loved it. About a Jewish woman who flees with her mother to rural France and ends up forging documents to help children escape to Switzerland. Her mother disapproves of the work (completed at a local Catholic church) and her budding relationships with the other members of the resistance. I could not put this one down at all!

Now, out of necessity, I’ve moved on to a lighter subject and am reading Spring Blooms at the Hummingbird Hotel by Daisy James. And a nice, practical non-fiction book The Minimalist Home: A Room by Room Guide to a Decluttered, Focused Life by Joshua Becker.

On My TV

Not much really. Next Level Chef when I remember. Joe Millionaire, guilty pleasure TV. Forgot to watch Around the World in 80 Days on Sunday so I need to catch up on that some time today. Tried watching some random show last night, The Endgame. Seemed ok. Reminded me of a female version of The Blacklist. 

On The Menu

I was tired of looking on-line/at Pinterest so picked up some new cookbooks at the library attempting to get out my cooking rut. Tried a couple new recipes from them last week. The fusion (not called that but I think it was that) Italian/Chinese stir fry from Lydia’s A Pot, a Pan, and a Bowl cookbook wasn’t a hit. However, the porkchops from Gordon Ramsay’s Quick and Delicious were a “can make again” winner. Unfortunately, I saw nothing in the Jamie Oliver cookbook that I thought would work around here so I need to give it back. (Library is a great place to try out cookbooks before you buy one).

MONDAY: Pepper steak, rice *J had a baritone lesson at 6:30*

TUESDAY: Spaghetti, maybe minestrone. Depends on my mood later.

WEDNESDAY: Moroccan chicken (another Gordon Ramsay recipe)

THURSDAY: Spicy Potato Soup (Grateful that Schotzy mentioned this recipe a while back. I’ve made it many times since then)

FRIDAY: Turkey tacos using leftover turkey (in freezer), yellow rice

SATURDAY/SUNDAY: homemade pizza, hot dogs/French fries

From The Camera

Back yard on Saturday afternoon:

South side of the house at the same time:

Yes, my daffodils have sprouted and have buds. No idea what to do about it. Going with the information that said they’d be okay as long as they haven’t flowered. If not, I guess I’ll learn for next year.

Looking Around The House

It could stand some spring cleaning. Or regular cleaning. It’s not awful though.

On My To Do List

1. Pay bills
2. Measure freezer shelves
3. Go to Target for bins to organize freezer (Note: This was my husband’s idea/suggestion. I’m not passing it by when my husband suggests I go to Target!)
4. Fold laundry/do a bit more laundry
5. Clear out one tub in basement

Quote For The Week

Always maintain a kind of summer even in the middle of winter. (Henry David Thoreau)

Or maybe even a kind of spring?

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Am I the only one with spring fever?

Well, I’m a day late with this once again. Hope everyone had a great Valentine’s Day! We didn’t do anything for it really. That’s okay. Some years are just more exciting than others. This just wasn’t one of the exciting years.

Let’s just get to the planning part of the post. Joining in with Sandra over at Diary Of A Stay At Home Mom.

The Weather

I’m ready for Spring! However, even the weather person called our current forecast “fool’s Spring” this morning. It’s supposed to get super warm later today but also very windy (fire warning windy). Then, typical for us, snow’s set to arrive Wednesday and all day on Thursday. However, I noticed the high on Friday is supposed to be 42 so I’m not too worried. We’ll see what happens. I’ll just enjoy the sunshine and warmth today while I can.

How I Am Feeling This Morning

Cautiously hopeful. J went to school today so that’s always a bonus, he went a half-day yesterday. I keep reminding myself that any progress is still progress. Many thanks to those of you praying for the situation. I do appreciate it so much and it is helping. Other than that issue, I’m a bit tired but also motivated to clean and clear the clutter out of this basement/the whole house.  In the mood for a light, clear house that reminds me of spring and summer. Did I mention I was ready for Spring?

On The Breakfast Plate

English muffin, yogurt, vitamins. And coffee. Always coffee.

On My Reading Pile

Been on a bit of a reading terror lately. Finished How to be Sad by Helen Russell. Non-fiction, interesting. I like how she weaves her personal experience through the book while sharing ideas and statistics regarding how different cultures cope with sadness. And how sadness is not something to ignore in the pursuit of happiness.

Then I read, Sex and Vanity by Kevin Kwan (author of Crazy Rich Asians). I enjoyed it though it was different from his other works. Found out later that it was supposed to be a remake of a classic novel called Room with a View. Not sure I enjoyed the story enough to look up the original book. Let me know if you’ve read it.  I guess there’s a movie, maybe I’ll just watch it.

Over the weekend into yesterday, I plowed through two “skip the line” loans on the e-library site: One by One by Ruth Ware, a fun locked in who done it type murder novel. And The Night Swim by Megan Goldin. It was a bit more of an intense read as it dealt with a podcaster covering a rape trial in a small town, stalked by the sister of another victim to a crime 25 years earlier. Not a book full of rainbows and light by far.

Finally, this morning my turn with The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah came due. So I’ve made a tiny dent into reading that though I need to accomplish a bit today before I sit down to escape into yet another book.

On My TV

Super bowl on Sunday. Trying to be happy for the Rams. Trying but I was really just mad that the Bengals lost. Because, you know, the Chiefs could’ve beat them. Says the sore loser over here. Half-time show? More enjoyable than I expected. Greatest half-time show of all time? Um. No. See Prince. Commercials? I miss when the commercials weren’t all over the place before the big game. Had already seen most of them.

If you’re looking for something interesting and a bit intense to binge-watch, Inventing Anna over on Netflix was really good. I watched it over the weekend. Can’t remember the last time a show held my attention enough for me to binge-watch it in a couple of days. Started watching out of curiosity because I heard the actress who plays Ruth in Ozark was in it, totally forgot that was why I was watching. True story. Truth is stranger than fiction for sure.

And of course, I need to catch up on Around The World in 80 Days plus I’ll be watching Joe Millionaire on Thursday. Kurt, would you please send Caroline home already? Geez. Not a fan of either. Why am I watching? I don’t know.

On The Menu

And now, we’re on to the biggest I don’t know of all.

MONDAY: J had McDonald’s, We split a steak at different times since I had to work/take J to his lesson. *I worked 3-5, last-minute thing* *J had a lesson at 6:30*

TUESDAY:  Pork Milanese, rice, salad *I have Bunco at 7*

WEDNESDAY: Spicy potato soup or maybe meatballs, unsure

THURSDAY: French toast, scrambled eggs, bacon or sausage (French Toast is in freezer)

FRIDAY: Homemade pizza or turkey (depends on if it’s thawed, we have a turkey we need to cook to get some freezer space) *J has an appointment at 10* *No School*

SATURDAY: See Friday

From The Camera

Last week was yet another slow camera week. The sky photo and this little squirrel were my only photos on the card. 

Looking Around The House

I finally took the donation box that’d been blocking the coat closet and getting kicked out of the way to it’s new home. Sunday afternoon used to be my go-to day for that but they closed the outside donation bin on Sundays. Ironically, I guess to keep the homeless people from rifling through the stuff. No comment.

Anyway, like I said earlier, I’m ready to clean and clear out.  It is time for some serious spring cleaning. Even if the snow flies tomorrow into Thursday.

On My To Do List

1. Laundry
2. Clean/clear the living room
3. Go through another basement storage tub (went through and managed to empty 2 yesterday! Even made a little bit of $ by taking some books to sell)
4. Go get table snacks for Bunco tonight (We started just doing table snacks during the Pandemic so aren’t back to full on hosting spreads yet)
5. Take care of some e-mail correspondence/pay a couple bills

Quote For The Week

Your home should tell the story of who you are, and be a collection of what you love. (Nate Berkus)

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Always behind around here it seems. I didn’t even work yesterday and still didn’t manage to get a post going. It was just a Monday. And a half. SIGH. More on that later perhaps.

Right now since I’m a day late, let’s just get straight to the planning post. Joining in as always with Sandra, the host of Happy Homemaker Mondays, over at Diary Of A Stay At Home Mom.

The Weather

Snow is almost all gone now. We’re having another set of nice weather days. Yesterday was a bit breezy though. Another cold front is supposed to arrive on Friday or Saturday, I think I heard them say on the news. However, most of this week is going to be in the 50’s. In February? Sold! No rain/snow chances. While we need the moisture, a few partly sunny days is something I’m happy to see.

How I Am Feeling This Morning

Honestly, I’m a bit of a mess. J’s struggles with anxiety/depression/school avoidance are something I’m finding rather hard to cope with as a parent. Still looking into homeschool options but am not sold that’s in his best interest either (He’s a very talented musician and with homeschool so many opportunities simply disappear for him. Our current laws here do not allow him to participate as a home school student. And it’s not that I want to push him but I do know in happier times, he loves the music and contests and concerts. I have a child who was in the band and did not love it at all so I feel confident in that assessment of things.). I currently have too many tabs open on this computer with everything from otter videos to homeschool options to pages on resources for anxiety and depression. (We do have an assessment scheduled for early March and I may call today regarding getting in with another therapist prior to that, good luck to me there).

He’s overwhelmed, I’m overwhelmed. SIGH. I let him sleep this morning after a bit of a row with him last night. Later today when we’re both calmer (and rested) we’ll sit down and go over things. We have a meeting at school with the assistant principal and hopefully, also the counselor tomorrow afternoon. Prayers for the meeting to go well and them to offer some *helpful* assistance greatly appreciated.

Oh and yesterday, I slipped on an icy patch on the driveway hitting my knee and scraping up one of my hands. Ice 1 Jean 0. I’m okay just a little sore this morning. It was a bit ironic as I was telling J to be watch out for the ice right as I slipped!

In happier news, it’s my husband’s birthday and I’m looking forward to celebrating him later tonight.

Whew! Next category!

On The Breakfast Plate

Nothing yet other than coffee. Trying to decide between the usual (yogurt), oatmeal, or a mini cinnamon roll.

On My Reading Pile

Went from not having anything engaging to read to tearing through quite a few books. Read the Kevin Kwan trilogy that starts with Crazy Rich Asians. These were indeed good escapist reads about a very dysfunctional over the top rich family with roots in Singapore and Hong Kong mostly. Still working my way through How to be Sad by Helen Russell, it’s good it just takes a bit of time to process.

And finally, I read The Four Winds by Kristin Hannah. It was a *skip the line* library loan (e-book) and my first time reading anything by the author. I’d heard of this book but thought nah on a number of occasions. However, I read the first few pages and was hooked, checking it out immediately. With apologies to any huge Steinbeck fans out there, where was this one while I was suffering through The Grapes of Wrath back in high school?

On My TV

Not much really. It’s that lull after the excitement of football. Next Level Chef, Joe Millionaire (I think they probably made the right choice last week.)

On The Menu This Week

Nothing overly exciting, I don’t think. I did get inspired by Sandra last week and made homemade bread to go with our beef stew. The beef stew probably won’t be a repeat but I’ll try the bread again sometime soon since I made a few mistakes (it turned out anyway but I want to try again following all the directions).

MONDAY: Ham, hash browns, carrots (subbed in for a really bad tasting cucumber), and cornbread *J had a baritone lesson at 6:30*

TUESDAY: OUT (Cracker barrel) for husband’s birthday, chocolate cake with white frosting for dessert

WEDNESDAY: Roast in the crock pot *Meeting at school at 1p.m.* *Mom’s (much needed) Night Out with friends*

THURSDAY: Spaghetti or pork chops/undecided. Probably go with the pork chops, need to use up some potatoes so pork chops and baked potatoes

FRIDAY: Spaghetti and meatballs, salad *I work 1-4:15*

Looking Around The House

Pondering why the kitchen table just won’t stay cleared off and clean? G cleaned his room over the weekend and moved some stuff into the living room while doing it, “I’ll move it back when I’m done” SIGH. Famous last words. Plan to spend some time cleaning today.

On My To Do List

1. Bake husband’s birthday cake/wrap presents
2. Clean house up a bit
3. Laundry
4. Sit down with J and go over his options/talk about things
5. Pay bills
6. Make some phone calls if I have time
7. Breathe?

To Relax This Week I Will

Drink tea, spend some time outside taking advantage of nice weather in February!

From The Camera

Cabin fever cat:

Monday’s stellar sunrise:

Quote For The Week

This verse from Sunday’s service has been on my mind so far this week:

Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, (Ephesians 4:26)

Finally, how about a little humor this week? This was the quote to start one of the chapters in Crazy Rich Girlfriend (book 2 in the series, really the 1st and 3rd books are the best). Made me chuckle a bit.

If you want to know what God thinks of money, just look at the people he gave it to. (Dorothy Parker)

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Another quick planning post as I’m still working a bit this week. Have a feeling it’s going to be another full week unless there’s a snow day or two in there. 

*I started this post right after the Chiefs game on Sunday night, original title was Sunday night blues. However, life kept me busy and I’m just now sitting down to finish it on a snowy Wednesday morning. Snow days for all of us (except my husband).*

Definitely working tomorrow so trying to get this done late (too late really) on Sunday night. Still a bit sad about the Chiefs game but congratulations to the Bengals, coming back like that at Arrowhead stadium, a very well-deserved win!

Joining in as always with Sandra over at Diary Of A Stay At Home Mom.

The Weather

Supposed to be crazy warm tomorrow, almost in the 60’s, so that means a day or two later: snowstorm on the horizon. Nothing like hit the east coast but a decent snow for sure. We’ll see what happens. Same old hot/cold weather pattern. Today wasn’t bad, in the 40’s.

As I mentioned, it’s Wednesday now and we did indeed get the snow (after a very nice Monday and cool, somewhat rainy Tuesday).

How I Am Feeling 

Disappointed about the football game outcome, a bit frazzled about the week ahead, and a bit tired. I really should go to bed. (How I felt on Sunday evening). How I am feeling on Wednesday morning: Glad to have a snow day to reset, still a bit unsettled about a lot of things.

On The Breakfast Plate

Toast with probably too much butter and coffee. Vitamins.

On My Reading Pile 

Really struggling to find a book that captures my interest enough I can simply “escape” into it. Non-fiction: How to be Sad by Helen Russell (probably finish it today). Fiction, currently trying to read Dune and I also started Crazy Rich Asians by Kevin Kwan after watching the movie on a whim over the weekend. Dune is probably going to end up as did not finish for me. Hoping the first reads from Amazon has an engaging read as a choice this month.

On My TV

Congratulations to the Bengals and the Rams! (I’ll be cheering on the Bengals, since the 80’s is a long time to wait for another championship, just ask any Royals baseball fan)

Mentioned I watched Crazy Rich Asians, really enjoyed it! Probably a little more chick-flick than I’d normally choose but a nice, feel-good kind of movie if you need one. J and I watched Kung Fu Panda 2, we’ll have to watch 3 now (1 is on Netflix but even with a “million” streaming services we ended up renting 2 from Amazon as I couldn’t find it anywhere).

TV series I’m watching right now: Around the World in 80 Days, really enjoying it. Going to be sad when it ends.

My guilty pleasure show of Joe Millionaire. Been planning a snack for Thursday nights as I watch it making a whole ritual of the experience of watching my trashy tv show. And if you’re watching it with me, I’ve come up with a theme song for Caroline:  Sweet but Psycho by Ava Max. Or maybe you are fan of Caroline? Personally, I am not and was sad they didn’t just send her home last week. Oh, the drama! On that note, glad my Missouri millionaire is so far somewhat staying out of it all. Oh, I am way too invested in this show. Help me!

On The Menu This Week

Thankfully, I went to the store before the game on Sunday so we’re pretty well set here for snow days and such. For the game we had BBQ little smokies, precooked heat and eat chicken wings, and I made the winter salad Carrie shared a couple weeks back (it was a hit!) along with a pineapple upside down cake for dessert.

MONDAY: It was a bit of rough day with us all going in different directions *G and I had BBQ ham sandwiches, J had heat and eat chicken wings, and my husband had leftover taco meat* *I worked 8:15-4:45* J had a baritone lesson at 6:30* My husband had to attend a visitation*

TUESDAY: Pepper steak and rice, G doesn’t like steak so I made some of into pepper chicken using the same recipe, turned out good  *I worked 8:15-5:00*

WEDNESDAY: beef stew (crock pot), homemade bread of some sort

THURSDAY: ham steaks, corn bread, salad *Meeting at high school at 1:00*

FRIDAY: Frozen pizza

From The Camera

Feel like I say this every week lately, but I didn’t pick up the camera enough last week. Took the first photo from the deck on Sunday night, no coat needed. The second one out the backdoor this morning, definitely need a coat, gloves, all of it if I go outside even on the deck today.

Looking Around The House

Giving it a good cleaning it definitely on the list for today!

On My To Do List

1. Clean the house (see told you it was on the list!)
2. Laundry
3. Enjoy my snow day!
4. Call new trash company as I’ve lost the billing info (yahoo e-mail glitch, grr)
5. Set up appointment for J

Something Fun To Share

J showed me this fun you-tube channel of Kotaro and Hanna, river otter pets in Japan and I can’t stop watching them.

On My Prayer List

Those still sick with the virus right now including the teacher I’ve been working for as she deals with COVID induced pneumonia, the co-director at my work as he’s also battling lingering effects from the virus as well as in need of kidney transplant (from diabetic kidney disease), the young (and older) children struggling. A friend of ours who just lost her husband back in August and also suddenly lost one of her brothers a week ago, that she is enveloped in peace as she grieves her losses. My son, for us to get answers so he can overcome the anxiety and depression he’s currently suffering through. Friends, family, strangers.  All those out working in today’s snowy and cold weather to stay safe. A return to kinder, happier, more peaceful times throughout the world.

Quote For The Week

Proverbs 3:5-6

⁵ Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.

⁶ In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.

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I definitely plan to spend part of my snow day catching up on a few of your blogs!

It’s a very full work week for me so I’m a bit late with my weekly planning post. And probably going to be a bit brief with it as well.

Joining in with Sandra over at Diary Of A Stay At Home Mom!

The Weather

Ten degrees and feels like 0 this morning. It was a high of 50 degrees yesterday and then got colder all day long. Same old up and down stuff. Not a snow/rain cloud in sight so far this week.

How I Am Feeling This Morning

Tired, rushed, frustrated, and slightly hopeful. Lots of feelings. Looking into switching J to online homeschooling. (If you have some experience with that, let me know) As well as trying to figure out if he can still do band at the high school so a mixed option of sorts. Have a friend calling me to talk about it more later tonight.

On My Reading Pile

Dune by Frank Herbert (honestly, glad I saw the new movie first) and How to be Sad by Helen Russell.

On My TV

NFL play offs. (Got to say it, GO CHIEFS! and wow, what a game…that I watched mostly through my hands screaming, I can’t watch! Tell me did he get the field goal? Did they score? What a great game that truly could’ve gone either way.) I am sorry and bit disappointed it won’t be a Green Bay vs KC match up. Of course, the Chiefs still have to face the Bengals and I’m thinking that’s not going to be an easy game either.

Looking way too forward to my Thursday night viewing of Joe Millionaire.

On The Menu

Sad to say I’ll probably be winging it a bit this week.

MONDAY: husband heated up leftover ham and rolls while I went to the grocery store *I worked 815-445*

TUESDAY: Something easy, maybe BLTS and fries *I work815-445* *Phone call at 6*

WEDNESDAY: Maybe chicken fajitas of sorts *I work 815-1* *J to take driver permit test in afternoon*

THURSDAY: ???? *I work 815-445*

FRIDAY: ????/ *I work 815-445*

Looking Around The House

It’s been worse

To Relax This Week I Will

Watch my guilty pleasure TV show with snacks

From The Camera

Managed a picture of the sunset sky one evening over the weekend. I usually can’t get a decent photo because of houses but that night my timing was great and the colors extended high enough into the sky that I could point the camera up at the sky enough to capture it and not the houses.

Something Fun To Share

Today is Rudolph Day, a day to celebrate/plan for Christmas on the 25th day of each month.

Quote For The Week

Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. (1 Peter 5:7)

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