Sometimes the days just get away from us, I think. My weekend was so busy and when I wasn’t busy, I was tired. Worked on Friday, so tired that night. May plus full moon plus preschool graduation on the horizon…whew, crazy kiddos.

Saturday, sadly, I had to attend the visitation and funeral for my boss’s husband. We all knew him as he was often doing things around the school, a family of very strong faith especially him. The funeral was very emotional and moving. Then, I caught up with an old high school friend who was holding a sale at her mom’s home (her mom moved to assisted living). Finally, Saturday night was our night out with friends. We celebrated seis de Mayo instead of cinco.

And I’m not even sure what I did on Sunday. Probably yard work and I know I took J driving for a bit. And in between all that, I was trying to track down family and sort out tickets for J’s upcoming graduation.

Yesterday, ended up being a longer work day than I was originally scheduled. However, today I was supposed to work but things changed and now I’m at home today unless I get called in for someone else. Tonight is preschool graduation so I’ll be going to that later.

So now that I’ve finished my not so short preamble of where I was all weekend, let’s look forward to this week. Joining in as always with Sandra over at Diary Of A Stay At Home Mom.

The Weather

It’s already been hot. And dry. We’re already in mild drought conditions. Thankfully, there’s a good chance of rain late tonight into tomorrow and again on Thursday, I think. Today is supposed to be in the mid 80’s. I don’t mind it but yesterday was already close to 90 so it makes you wonder about the rest of the summer a bit.

As I Look Outside My Window

The sunlight is streaming in this basement window and I think there’s a slight breeze as I see the shadows of my plants move (the window has a privacy liner on it).

Right Now

Taking a minute to put together this post.

Thinking And Pondering

I never seem to have time for the extra little projects I want to do around the house because I feel as though I’m constantly doing the basic chores on repeat. Just me? Thinking I’m going to start just picking one mini extra project a week and maybe try to tackle that. Of course, my mind and a lot of my time is simply outside at this time of year working on getting the porch set up and then, of course, enjoying it.

How I Am Feeling 

Not too bad, a little tired, might need a bit more coffee here in a minute. Extremely sick of oak tree pollen. It’s everywhere. Ugh. 

On The Breakfast Plate

Cinnamon raisin bagel, coffee, and vitamins

On The Lunch Plate

No idea. There’s leftover spaghetti from Sunday, leftover taco stuff from yesterday, and sandwich stuff.

On The Dinner Plate

Not sure. Husband is working late, I need to be at preschool graduation by 6, and the boys ate chicken out for lunch yesterday which was my original plan for today.

What I’m Wearing Today

Currently a tee shirt from our vacation a few years back to Duluth, Minnesota, navy linen shorts, and leopard slip on shoes (they’ve become my wear around the house/yard shoes). Later, I’ll switch into something nicer for preschool graduation, probably blue capri pants and blue shirt with some sparkly stuff in the material.

On My Reading Pile

Last week I read Spare by Prince Harry. A bit odd to be reading it at the time of the King’s coronation. I have lots of thoughts on it, my main one being if that’s what it’s like to be a member of a royal family, I’m happy to be a mere peasant. I might need to write a proper review for it. Now, I’ve moved on and have just started the 3rd book in the Bill Hodges trilogy by Stephen King called End of Watch.

On My TV This Week

I need to finish up Spring Baking Championship and my one episode of Dr. Who. Then, just the usual: Masked Singer, Ted Lasso, and on Friday night, The Last Thing He Told Me. Plus, Top Chef and Last Chance Kitchen. And finally, we started season 2 of Wayward Pines. Still weird, maybe even weirder this season. I put the first book on hold at the library.

On The Menu This Week

I made it on Monday morning before work and already, it’s a bit off but this was the plan:

MONDAY: taco salads *I worked 11-5*

TUESDAY: chicken nuggets and sweet potato fries *I have preschool graduation at 6*

WEDNESDAY: grilled pork chops, asparagus, salad maybe *I have a hair appt at 9*

THURSDAY: stir fry of some sort *I work 8:15-3:45*

FRIDAY: Pizza *J has a graduation party at 6*

Looking Around The House

I should focus on it today but we’ll see how far I get with things or I run outside to work on planting things like these begonias.

On My To Do List

1. Grocery store *DONE*
2. Bit of laundry
3. Haircut on Wednesday
4. Work on front porch flowers/plants
5. I need to find a dress for J’s graduation as well as some new summer clothes, mainly for work.
6. Clean the house
7. Get gas for the car
8. Mow the yard.
9. Take J driving
10. Make graduation announcements for J

From The Camera

The human subject is not obeying orders and I am annoyed.

 

Quotes For The Week

Yes, two for this week. Both really spoke to me especially since things were a bit chaotic over the weekend. Both are from Courtney over at Be More With Less, complete article here.

******************

 

 

 

If the calendar didn’t tell me otherwise, I’d be tempted to think it’s the first day of March around here. Chilly and windy out there! Still, lots of blue skies, sunshine, and flowers blooming so that’s nice. 

Joining in with Sandra over at Diary Of A Stay At Home Mom for the weekly Happy Homemaker Monday link up.

The Weather

Guess I already mentioned it a bit. It’s 59 degrees out but so windy out there that it feels much cooler. Supposed to be in the low 60’s today and tomorrow and still in the 40’s overnight but warm up later this week. Then, we’re due to be in the mid to upper 70’s with lows in the 50’s at night. Someday, maybe my summer plants can move back out there and stay for a while.

As I Look Outside My Window

I see cardinals and house finches at the bird feeders. And of course, the horde of house sparrows. A few woodpeckers. And crows! Can’t see their nest any more but I can certainly hear these birds when they get upset over things.

Right Now

Doing a bit of laundry and working on this post. A little later than normal, just taking a bit of a slower pace today.

Thinking And Pondering

Trying to determine a polite response to a teacher who asked me to work for 1 hour in the afternoon next week. One hour is not really worth my time. Sometimes I don’t mind but usually only for the early morning shifts, ie if someone is running late or I’m already planning on being out that way. And since I’m human, I’ll admit sometimes the person asking impacts my answer.

Once in a while requests for short shifts are different than constant requests for short shifts.  I want to be helpful but at the same time I don’t want to set a precedent. Constantly asking me to cover 1-2 hours shifts feels a bit disrespectful of my time and efforts and I don’t like it.

How I Am Feeling

Happy. J decided he’s going to walk at graduation. It’s a bit of a scramble for some things but I’m so glad he’s going to get the experience (and let us have it as well). Either way would’ve been okay but this is the outcome I was hoping he’d choose.

On The Breakfast Plate

Coffee. Half of a cinnamon raisin bagel.

On The Lunch Plate

Payday for me so I treated the boys (and myself) to Backyard Burger.

On The Dinner Plate

Grilled chicken legs, asparagus, coleslaw, and strawberries

What I’m Wearing Today

Long-sleeved black tee shirt (in May!!), jeggings, tennis shoes

On My Reading Pile

All my hold books came in at once! Had to let the next person in line have one of them (they’re all e-books). Finished reading Fairytale by Stephen King. Was kind of surprised to see a few negative reviews as I enjoyed it. Not quite as scary as some of his previous works, more of a fantasy type novel. Now, I’m reading The Family Upstairs by Lisa Jewell. I’ve already read the sequel of sorts so I’m glad to find out the original story.

On The TV This Week

New episodes of Barry, Dr. Who, The Spring Baking Championship, and The Big Door Prize. Then, with my husband, I’ll watch Masked Singer, Ted Lasso, and Wayward Pines. Also, The Last Thing He Told Me (by myself, husband wasn’t interested). Might watch the Ghosted movie though I’ve heard it’s not that great.

On The Menu

A bit of a slower paced week so far. No baritone lesson for J.

MONDAY: chicken legs, asparagus, coleslaw, and strawberries

TUESDAY: French toast, bacon, and broiled tomatoes

WEDNESDAY: Sausage and zucchini skillet, maybe pasta salad on the side

THURSDAY: Hawaiian pulled pork sandwiches, sweet potato fries *J has an appt at 11* *I work 3-5*

FRIDAY: Homemade pizza on the grill (or OUT) *I work 8:30-5*

Looking Around The House

It’s a mess but I’m struggling to find motivation to do anything about it today.

On My To Do List

1. Take J to take his end of course exam in history at 7:15 *DONE* (And yes, he was done but oops, they missed this requirement. Done now)
2. Email regarding a couple graduation questions. DONE
3. Grocery store DONE
4. Laundry IN PROGRESS
5. This post IN PROGRESS
6. Pay bills
7. Garden chores/looks like I’m going to need to at least water plants
8. Figure out graduation announcements/party plans. YAY!
9. Look for or order some new summer clothing. Probably the only person to say this but I actually miss K-Mart. They were my go-to for cheap yet somewhat nice looking work clothing.
10. Whatever else I’m not thinking of at the moment

From The Camera

I actually found a hanging basket of blue lobelia yesterday. So happy that I don’t have to try and make my own this year. Plus, it was a bargain price! And of course, I’m still enjoying the orange tulips though some are starting to fade a bit. 

On My Prayer List

Friends, family, strangers. My boss and her family as she just lost her husband to cancer. Another teacher whose father had a heart attack last weekend and was in the hospital (probably still there but I didn’t work today so I haven’t heard any updates). Peace, health, and kindness for the world.

Quote For The Week

Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him, and he will act.  (Psalm 37: 4-5)

*****************

Well, instead of wordless Wednesday, it’s going to be a Wednesday full of words around here. I’m finally getting to my Happy Homemaker Monday post!

I made it one of the items on my 23 for 2023 list to join in with every Happy Homemaker Monday hosted by Sandra over at Diary Of A Stay At Home Mom. So, a Wednesday posting it shall be. Plus, these posts really do help me get my weeks organized, even if it’s mid-week.

The Weather

 

It’s nice out but I feel like we could be warmer! It’s currently 52 and sunny outside. Chilly enough in the mornings for jacket but warm enough to go without by the afternoons. I didn’t wear a jacket at all yesterday though I did wear an elbow length sleeved shirt. Slight chance of rain tomorrow into Friday but otherwise, highs in the 60’s and lows in the upper 40’s. Next week looks warmer. I’m glad as I really want to move my hibiscus and monstera outside to their summer locations.

As I Look Outside My Window

I need to fill the bird feeders. And put out the hummingbird feeder! I’ve not seen any yet but want to be ready.

Right Now

Trying to focus on this post and wondering if I should go check on the cat. I left her outside a little bit ago when she came with me to take out the trash.

Thinking And Pondering

The stuff I need/want to do and get done in the next few days. My thoughts are little jumbled this morning so I’m hoping this post can help me sort things out a bit.

How I Am Feeling

Tired and a little overwhelmed. Not feeling bad though.

On The Breakfast Plate

Coffee, more coffee in the form of a caramel macchiato from Starbucks, toast with strawberry jam

 On The Lunch Plate

No idea, maybe leftover pizza. Or a sandwich. Or nothing.

On The Dinner Plate

Giving G his choice when he comes back from class. Either: pepper steak (chicken for him) and rice or ham steaks, corn on the cob, and fresh pineapple.

What I’m Wearing

Marching band tee shirt from G’s senior year of high school, jeggings, and leopard print slip on shoes.

On My Reading Pile

A stack of April magazines (a first/last glance through and then, recycle bin). Trying to read The Paris Diversion by Chris Pavone but struggling to get into it.

On My TV This Week

It’s Masked Singer and Ted Lasso night! Dr. Who (just one episode), Barry, The Big Door Prize are all things I’m watching by myself. Oh, and The Spring Baking Championship. My husband and I together are watching: Top Chef, season 20 plus Last Chance Kitchen as well as Wayward Pines. We also watch the first two shows mentioned together.

On The Menu This Week

This week starting off so busy kind of threw my menu planning off a bit.

MONDAY: We had Backyard Burger (fast food restaurant) *I worked 7-4* *J had a lesson at 6:30*

TUESDAY: Papa John’s Pizza (husband ordered this while I was at work but I was glad not to worry with dinner) *I worked 7-4*

WEDNESDAY: Pepper steak/chicken and rice OR ham steaks and corn/pineapple

THURSDAY: Pepper steak/chicken and rice OR ham steaks and corn/pineapple

FRIDAY: I was just looking at this goulash recipe here. Or I might make spicy potato soup. Or ???

Looking Around The House

It’s bad. I should be picking it up and cleaning instead of writing this post.

On My To Do List

1. Grocery store *DONE*
2. Probably some laundry
3. Clean the house
4. Check that I paid all the bills
5. Take J driving
6. Look into getting some new spring/summer clothes
7. Outside chores: mow the lawn, add some flowers, work on the garden
8. Other stuff I’ll remember later

From The Camera

On the phone camera, a couple more shots of the kites at the kite festival.

Real camera: more flowers, of course.

On My Prayer List

Friends, family, strangers. My boss and her family as her husband passed away from cancer over the weekend. Peace and kindness to overtake the world.

Quote For The Week

Not a quote exactly but this song has been in my head ever since driving by those kites on Sunday:

*****************

Ever have those weeks where you have lots to do but just don’t do any of it? That was me last week. Sometimes you just need to give yourself a break.

Now it’s a new week with an old and new to do list. Time to get it planned by joining in the weekly link up hosted by Sandra over at Diary Of A Stay At Home Mom.

The Weather 

We had some 80 degree days last week, then April Fools! It was suddenly cold again over the weekend. Really, just back to normal but 50’s feel cold after the 80’s. And it did drop down enough overnight that I had to bring in my hibiscus. We did get a bit of much needed rain, so that was nice. Right now it’s currently 48 and sunny. Supposed to warm back up the next two days, then drop again with a chance of rain Thursday and Friday.

As I Look Outside My Window

I’m in the basement so the ground level window has a privacy film. However, the sun is strongly streaming through it.

Right Now

I just returned from the grocery store, put away the groceries, ate breakfast, and am working on this post.

Thinking And Pondering

Ever read something and just have a light bulb moment?

I get a weekend favorites email from Courtney over at Be More With Less. In one of the links this week was this article about the rule of five for eliminating kitchen clutter. As someone who gets easily overwhelmed with too many choices, this article just spoke to me. And I applied it to my grocery shopping this morning. Really helped me in not overbuying, I’ve been working really hard to get out of that pandemic shopping mindset. My magic number was 3 this week. Three fruit choices, three veggie choices, three snack choices (for the kids and maybe me), etc.

On My Bedside Table

Lamp, two chargers. My husband was charging some type of work light on it yesterday. Need to get rid of the extra charger.

Listening To

Cat is down here sleeping and I can hear her snoring!

On My Reading Pile

Just finished one called The Accident by Chris Pavone. It didn’t do much for me, way too many points of view in the story telling. And I’ve just started Finders Keepers by Stephen King, the second one in the Mr. Mercedes trilogy.

On My TV Today

If I do find a few minutes for tv today, I’ll either watch my one episode of Dr. Who for the week, The Spring Baking Championship, or the first episode of Barry, season 4.

On The Lunch Plate

Undecided but 3 choices: leftover spaghetti (might make into a meatball sub), leftover ribs (probably not), or ham/cheese sandwich.

On The Dinner Plate

Not my favorite but I have potatoes I need to use up: chicken and noodles, mashed potatoes

On My Menu This Week

Pretty standard fare for us this time.

MONDAY: chicken and noodles, mashed potatoes *J has a lesson at 6:30*

TUESDAY: tacos *I have bunco at 7*

WEDNESDAY: Roast in the crock pot *I work 12-4*

THURSDAY: Teriyaki shrimp and rice (don’t get excited, I’m pouring a jar of teriyaki sauce over some frozen shrimp) *I work 8:15-4:45*

FRIDAY: Leftovers, OUT, or frozen pizza *I work 8:15-4:45*

On My To Do List

Everything from last week.

1. Pay bills
2. Grocery store *DONE*
3. Laundry is mostly done
4. Bit of housecleaning
5. Figure out J’s graduation stuff
6. Take J to practice driving
7. Work
8. Call my brother
9. Add some more flowers/plant some seeds in the garden
10. All the things I’m forgetting

Plans This Week

Bunco on Tuesday night, yardwork, some clutter clear out, take some old electronics to a local recycle event on Saturday, and maybe make some clear out the pantry cookie dough and throw it in the freezer

What I’m Creating

Need to get started on my new diamond painting, still thinking about the garden flowers for on the front porch and the area beside it.

Simple Pleasure

Having fresh air come in the open the windows.

 

Looking Around The House

See item #4 on the to do list.

From The Camera

I’ve been a bit obsessed with the orange tulips.

On My Prayer List

My sister-in-law (still need to call brother and see how things went), the homeless, friends, other family, strangers, that everything is set for J to graduate, our country, the world, peace and kindness to prevail.

Quote For The Week

Stay close to people who feel like sunlight. (Xan Oku)

*********************

Day 107/365

 

Just now getting to my post as today ended up a bit busy.  Work, supposed to end at 3:45 but asked to stay until 5. Then, off to J’s baritone lesson. Followed by a 30 minute driving lesson. Finally, I have a few minutes to put up this post.

Things this week just keep changing to a bit busier than anticipated. So, let’s get to planning the week with Sandra over at Diary Of A Stay At Home Mom.

The Weather 

Spring is in the air! And so are warmer temperatures. And *clears throat, sneezes a bit* so is tree pollen, especially the blooms from those stinky pear trees. Exciting news was that we got a bit of rain today! Rest of the week is supposed to be clear and our highs are predicted to be in the 80’s with sunshine.

As I Look Outside My Window

Dark now, wasn’t home earlier. However, the preschool kids spotted a caterpillar as they looked outside one of the preschool doors. Very observant!

Right Now

Working on this post.

Thinking And Pondering 

Quite a bit. Stuff I need to do. Some sad news from yesterday. A possible job opportunity at my work.

On My Bedside Table

Lamp, old and new phones, charger cable.

On My TV Tonight

Husband is watching The Handmaid’s Tale, not my thing so I’m down here working on my blog. Probably glance at the news later. Over the weekend, we watched the complete season of Night Agent on Netflix. It was pretty good.

Listening To

The dryer. Hooray for husbands who help with laundry!

On The Lunch Plate

Macaroni and cheese at work

On The Dinner Plate

A second hurrah for husbands who help with dinner.  I wouldn’t have done it but he deep fried some frozen chicken nuggets and made rolls. (No vegetable in sight is the trade-off here)

On My Menu This Week

No idea. Might be a lot of husband’s choice/lack of vegetables this week.

MONDAY: chicken nuggets and rolls *I worked 8-5* *J had a baritone lesson at 6:30*

TUESDAY: No idea, husband’s choice. Easter leftovers? *I work 8-3:30 and then, have a CPR class at 5:30*

WEDNESDAY: Spaghetti?

THURSDAY: Pepper steak and rice or husband’s choice *Mom’s Night Out*

FRIDAY: Turkey sausages on the the grill maybe? With pasta salad? *I work 8-4:30*

On My Reading Pile

Just started one called The Accident by Chris Pavone.

On My To Do List

This is likely to be a week where not much on the to do list happens so keeping it short.

1. Go to store at some point
2. Pay a couple bills
3. Take J out driving as much as possible
4. Talk to husband about job opportunity at my work
5. Plant some garden things

Plans This Week

Work, Go to the CPR Class, Visit with friends at Mom’s Night Out, Put away Easter things, Try to not eat all the leftover Easter candy in one sitting

What I Am Creating 

Impossible way over budget both in terms of space and finances garden plans and ideas?

Simple Pleasure

Leaving the house without needing a coat!

Looking Around The House

It’s not awful.

From The Camera

I did pick it up a bit last week.

On My Prayer List 

My sister in law who battled throat cancer during 2021 and was cleared. They’ve discovered small spots in her throat and one in her lungs. Prayers they are able to deal with them quickly and she’ll be clear again. For family, friends, and strangers.

Quote For The Week

Well-suited quote for my garden plans:

Gardeners, I think, dream bigger dreams than emperors. (Mary Cantwell)

 

*******************

Day 98/365

Ah, it’s finally April. Getting closer to that spring and summer weather with blooming flowers everywhere. My favorite.

Today, my mind is full of all the projects and things I’d like to get done. However, my body isn’t quite keeping up after a not so restful night’s sleep and a bit of achiness (the weather, I think).

Let’s just get to planning the week with Sandra over at Diary Of A Stay At Home Mom.

The Weather 

It’s cloudy with a slight chance of rain today. It’s currently 57 but feels a bit cooler to me. Still was warm enough overnight that I left my outdoor house plants outside for an extended vacation. Soon enough they’ll be moving out there full time. Tomorrow the high is supposed to be in the 80’s (!!!) with another slight chance of thunderstorms. Then, back down to highs in the 50’s for the rest of the week. Lows in the 30’s, plants back inside for a bit. Weekend, however, looks perfect with sunshine and highs in the 70’s.

As I Look Outside My Window

I see birds that are a bit upset that the feeders are close to empty. However, let me tell you what I heard outside my window in the super early morning hours. The calling of a couple of barred owls. Very close, likely in the Maple tree. That never gets old.

Right Now 

Working on this post, doing a bit of laundry, and thinking about lunch.

Thinking And Pondering

Easter plans, if we’ll have any outside of church, all the projects around the house I’d like to get done.

On My Bedside Table

The usual. Here’s a couple views of my dresser though as it tends to get stuff on it more often than the bedside table which I limit to only the lamp, phone charger, and phone. (Of course, underneath it, I currently have all the Easter basket goodies hidden)

On My TV Tonight

Probably just The Voice. And I’ll watch my latest Doctor Who episode while folding laundry. Should probably do another books/movie/tv post soon as I’ve watched some great things and read a few fun books.

Listening To

The dryer. Probably going to hear the cat complaining as she wanted outside, she’ll soon change her mind.

On The Lunch Plate

I’m leaning toward chicken tortilla soup (from a can)

On The Dinner Plate

Pork chops, potatoes, and salad

On My Menu This Week

Kind of worked this one out while grocery shopping…

MONDAY: pork chops, potatoes, salad *J has a lesson at 6:30*

TUESDAY: burritos (using a simplified version, we’ll leave out the beans of this recipe) *J has an appt at 11:00*

WEDNESDAY: chicken spinach skillet

THURSDAY: pepper steak

FRIDAY: Spaghetti, or OUT

On My Reading Pile

Just started reading The Family Remains by Lisa Jewell, seems like a promising thriller so far.

On My To Do List

Um, all the things!

1. Laundry
2. Grocery store *DONE*
3. Clean the house
4. Send a couple Easter cards (get Easter cards, also)
5. Call family regarding Easter plans
6. Need new work clothes as well as a new pair of tennis shoes
7. Change Instagram password (we’re getting new phones, can’t remember my old password and don’t want to get locked out of my account-again)
8. Outdoor chores: get birdseed, start more flower seeds, clean up yard
9. Finish Easter baskets for the boys (yes, I’m making my adult children baskets)
10. Move/Rearrange a few things around the house
11. Bonus item: mark off some vacation weeks this summer (No longer worried about my work not calling me ever again. I work the end of May, bit of June, and so far all of July. Could change though)

Plans This Week 

Finish the Easter baskets (I went with an overwhelming/overkill on it Peeps theme plus I’m giving them some new shirts/shorts), Work on cleaning the porch/yard-take things to the city wide trash/brush drop off on Saturday, and get J started driving again (plus look into local driving schools)

What I’m Creating

Starting to plan out the garden areas and front porch/deck areas. So excited that it’s almost time to add the flowers. 

Simple Pleasure

Walking around the yard seeking out small signs of spring

Looking Around The House

Started to clean on Saturday before becoming distracted by the weather so it’s not awful. Still see lots of heavy winter blankets and such to put away. Always needs tidying as well.

From The Camera

 

On My Prayer List

Unknown neighbor who posted on the neighborhood site, seemed to be having a very tough time of things, friends who are not feeling well (we had to postpone our monthly game night due to illnesses), a few sick teachers (strep is going around our area apparently), family. Kindness, peace, and healing to spread throughout the world.

Quote For The Week

Seems fitting to my mood today:

Spring is the time of plans and projects. (Leo Tolstoy)

 

*****************

day 91/365

 

I was a bit shocked yesterday realizing this is the last week of March. However, I’m excited to see what good things April brings. Hoping it is going to bring the warm spring weather on a more consistent basis.

Today’s a busy Monday around here. I’ve already been to the grocery store, started a roast in the crock pot for dinner, and am now working on this post. In just a bit, I’ll take J for the second part of his testing. Once he’s done with that, he should be ready to graduate. Just a few small things to check on for that. Later tonight, I’ll also be taking him to his baritone lesson.

So far the rest of my week seems fairly open. Let’s join in with Sandra over at Diary Of A Stay At Home Mom to plan the week.

The Weather 

Trampoline? Bounce House? Warm, then cold. Rainy, then sunny. Today we get cold and sunny though it’s supposed to warm up later. Currently 34 degrees, we woke up in the 20’s though. No complaints as I know some of you have snow covering your ground. Supposed to be in the 50’s and gradually warm up the rest of the week. Chances of rain tomorrow and bigger chance on Friday.

As I Look Outside My Window

Birds at the bird feeder out the back.

Thinking And Pondering

Still thinking about yesterday’s church service a bit, the sermon was on compassion. Also, thinking about our Easter plans though we have 2 weeks. We’ll have church as J plays in the 11 am service but not sure what we’ll do after. The flower and vegetable gardens….my mind is all over the place today.

On My Bedside Table

The usual, just the lamp and phone charger though in the early morning hours a certain cat likes to sit on it and “talk” to me until I get my lazy self out of bed.

On My TV Tonight

Probably just The Voice.

Listening To

I can hear a few birds outside this morning.

On The Lunch Plate

No idea, J’s testing is right around lunch time

On The Dinner Plate

Roast is in the crock pot for dinner tonight

On My Menu This Week 

Every time I think it’s time for lighter spring suppers, the weather turns cold again…

MONDAY: Roast in the crockpot

TUESDAY: Grilled chicken, asparagus, maybe with  fettuccine

WEDNESDAY: Korean BBQ meatballs with chive pancakes (we have chives coming up wild in the yard and I thought it might be fun to use them)

THURSDAY: Turkey sausage and zucchini skillet

FRIDAY: Pizza of some sort, salad

On My Reading Pile

Just started reading Mr. Mercedes by Stephen King. It’s more mystery than scary at this point and I’m okay with that. Last week I read a series of books by Rosemary Whittaker, a bunch of escape/feel good romance books. The last one was my favorite, The Feijoa Tree. While the books are presented as a series, they are all slightly different with different characters so could be read in any order, I think.

On My To Do List 

1. Enjoy the sunny days!
2. Pay a few bills
3. Take back library book (way overdue, hangs head in shame)
4. Put away winter sweaters (almost done)
5. Put out some Easter decor
6. Clean out fridge
7. Laundry
8. Cancel a few subscriptions we no longer use/need
9. Take J to renew his driver’s permit
10. Spring cleaning chores (walls, living room curtains hopefully, windows)
11. And of course, posts for the Blog 365

Plans This Week

Spring cleaning, yard work, it’s our Saturday dinner out/game night with friends

What I’m Creating

I bought a new diamond art of a Tuscany Village scene but I’ve yet to start. Garden areas outside.

Simple Pleasure

Spring Flowers. Dreaming of Summer flower and vegetable gardens.

Looking Around The House 

As much as I love my plants, I am ready for the outside ones to go back out there, just a few more weeks. And of course, I need to clean.

From The Camera

I bought hot pepper suet to discourage the squirrels. Not sure but I think he’s looking for his margarita to go with the new spicy food. SIGH. Our squirrels don’t mind the hot pepper suet.

On My Prayer List

Friends, family, strangers, the homeless, J to successfully graduate, more peace and kindness in the world.

Quote For The Week

Found this one on Pinterest.

A kind word is like a spring day. (Russian proverb)

 

***********************

Day 84/365

 

 

Been a busy first day of spring around here so I’m a bit late getting to things today. Are you excited for the new season? I know I am so happy and ready for warmer days, green grass, and flowers.

Let’s just get straight to joining in with Sandra over at Diary Of A Stay At Home Mom for this planning post.

The Weather

It’s currently 60 degrees and sunny. We couldn’t have asked for better first day of spring weather. Maybe a little less windy but I don’t mind as I’m too busy soaking up the sunshine and warm temperatures. There are chances for rain the rest of the week until Friday, cooler tomorrow with a high of only 48 but then, we bounce to 67 before leveling off in the 50’s for the rest of the week.

As I Look Outside My Window 

I see a robin! A sure sign of spring. All the winter birds are still here but I I’m thinking they should be packing their suitcases soon (looking at you little snowbirds!)

Right Now

Trying to get this post done before I have to throw together dinner and take J to his lesson tonight.

Thinking And Pondering

Too much on my mind. One of the things: I was just in the grocery store thinking how sad it is that my go-to cheap meals are now some of the more expensive ones. French Toast used to be such an easy thing but now the bread, eggs, and milk make it cost as much as a “normal” meal. And still with the random things they don’t have at times. I just want my normal taco seasoning packet (and yes, I know I can make my own but I like this kind)

On My Bedside Table

Currently the camera bag. I should have my phone on the charger but just remembered it.

On My TV Tonight

Probably just The Voice. 

Listening To

Nothing at the moment. Earlier the cat was meowing mad at me for forgetting her outside when I came back inside. I got an earful of meows! Ha.

On The Lunch Plate

The boys and I had McDonald’s, one of those days.

On The Dinner Plate

No idea, grocery store chicken, leftovers (pork chops or tacos), cereal. We ate lunch kind of late. My husband had a root canal so is not super excited about eating. It’s an on  your own type of night, I think.

On The Menu This Week

MONDAY: OYO *J had to take a test for school off-site at 9:30* *J has a lesson at 6:30*

TUESDAY: Chicken and noodles, mashed potatoes *I might go to Bunco*

WEDNESDAY: Homemade sub sandwiches, chips, fruit

THURSDAY: Might make fajitas or finally the pepper steak I keep moving around on the menu *I work 2:30-5 and then, have CPR training, I think…need to make sure*

FRIDAY: Pancakes (might switch this with Wednesday depending on how my husband feels)

On My Reading Pile

Just the spring magazines. I really need to find a book for tonight.

On My To Do List

• Spring cleaning
• Grocery store 
• Pay a couple bills
• Get some seeds started
• Other stuff…?

Plans This Week

wash living room curtains, shower curtain, (all the curtains!), clear off a few tall surfaces, go to Bunco depending on how tomorrow goes, work

What I’m Creating

Way too early but I’m anxious to get the garden going. Also, I did buy a new diamond art painting to try.

Simple Pleasure

Warm spring days with sunshine, birds, flowers, and bees!

(See that little yellow ball on the bee? I had to look that one up as I’d never noticed that on my early spring bees before. Interesting explanation of it all in this article about why bees have pockets.)

Looking Around The House

Ugh. Let’s do that after a bit of spring cleaning happens. We did get a new dresser for J’s room at Ikea but I forgot to take a photo before we set it up in there. I’ll have to sneak in one day when he’s not home.

From The Camera

Last sunset of winter over a local lake.

 

On My Prayer List

A peaceful, positive spring season for all. J to graduate high school, we’re inching closer. My husband to not be in too much pain after his dental work. Friends, family, strangers.

Quote For The Week

Some old-fashioned things like fresh air and sunshine are hard to beat. (Laura Ingalls Wilder)

********************

Day 77/365

 

A week without worrying about anything school related? Sold! Of course, I will probably still spend some time looking at my calendar and replying to few texts I blew off last week. And I won’t be surprised if I get a text or two.

However, I don’t have to worry about being anywhere school related this week. So, I’ll take that. My days are (mostly) my own this week. So let’s get to planning them by joining in with Sandra over at Diary Of A Stay At Home Mom.

The Weather

Here’s the weather my alter-ego, hip and young avatar Jean is experiencing on her spring break:

Our actual weather, not what I ordered. Not going to complain too much as I saw where those of you north of us got hit with more snow over the weekend so I’ll take cloudy and cold. Right now, it’s currently 26 degrees but feels like 14. What?! I know it’s still winter but grumble, I’m on “spring” break. Thankfully, by mid-week we are in the upper 50’s/low 60’s but with rain. Then, cold again for the weekend. We were just completely spoiled with those super warm days earlier this month.

As I Look Outside My Window

Clouds, mostly sparrows at the bird feeders. I keep “encouraging” the snowbirds (juncos) that maybe it’s time to go home so our nice warm weather can start. Ha!

Right Now

I’m trying to see how far I can get on this post before I have to stop and take J to an appointment.

Thinking And Pondering 

Thinking about all the things (looks like they’re going to be mostly indoors) I want to do this week. Pondering how much of it is going to be “goofing off” vs “getting things done”

On My Bedside Table

The usual. I do have some shamrock cookies hidden in the bottom part for later this week. (Have to keep things hidden around here or they tend to disappear…) The amaryllis blooms are starting to fade but I do see another bloom trying to open.

On My TV Tonight

J still has a lesson so probably not much unless I stay up later. End of The Voice when we get back from his lesson.

Listening To

The heat kicked on this morning so that’s all I hear at the moment.

On The Lunch Plate

Hoping to talk J into lunch at a local restaurant near his appointment that sells great cinnamon rolls. Otherwise, no idea. *UPDATE: Neither of us were hungry so we came home and had frozen Mexican style pizza for lunch later*

On The Dinner Plate

Leaning toward spicy potato soup. Simmering on the stove right now.

On The Menu This Week

Thought about trying to do an Irish theme this week but that might be too heavy for us. Instead I’m just going to add an element of green to each meal.

MONDAY: Spicy Potato Soup/I always add a chopped fresh (seeded) jalapeno to this soup for an extra kick and bit of color *J has an appt at 11* *J has a lesson at 6:30*

TUESDAY: Pepper steak/chicken/takes lime juice in the marinade so we’re counting that

WEDNESDAY: Ham steaks, cornbread, salad *I have a hair appointment at 9:30*

THURSDAY: Tacos, we’ll have them with guacamole

FRIDAY: Crunchy coleslaw with grilled chicken added, asparagus, and shamrock cookies and shakes (from McDonalds)

On My Reading Pile

An overdue library book, You by Caroline Kepnes on the e-book kindle app on my phone, and a pile of March magazines.

On My To Do List

1. Pay a few bills
2. Go to grocery store Done, late but done
3. laundry
4. clean the house
5. Enjoy my spring break!!

Plans This Week

Relax, movie with G tomorrow (we’re planning to see Everything Everywhere All at Once), Getting a haircut, going to a record store with J one day.

What I’m Creating

Really need to start on creating the vegetable and flower gardens by starting a few more seeds.

Simple Pleasure

Coffee (especially the day after Daylight Savings Time)

Looking Around The House

Well, we were here pretty much all weekend and it looks like it. The daffodils were drooping outside (apparently big variations in temperature/early warm days can cause this) so I broke down and picked a few.

From The Camera

It was a slow week for picking up the camera, pictures are all from today. Chelsey looks like she’s posing for senior portrait, silly cat!

 

Quote For The Week

A kind word never broke anyone’s mouth. (Irish proverb)

***************

Day 70/365

Welcome to March! It’s been way too kind to us so far.

Almost feel as if this post should come with a trigger warning for those of you suffering from spring fever. Consider yourselves warned.

Now, let’s get on with planning this week by joining in with Sandra over at Diary Of A Stay At Home Mom.

The Weather 

Our second day in a row with sunshine and warm temperatures. Yesterday was just unbelievable, 72 degrees! Oh, I didn’t even know how much my soul needed to be out working around the yard in that sunshine.

Least you get too jealous, after today’s predicted high of 61, the temps fall. We’re back to highs in the mid to upper 40’s with rain showing on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. I’ll be shocked if we get that much rain though.

As I Look Outside My Window

I see sunshine!!

Thinking And Pondering 

Yesterday’s church sermon on consumerism versus the simple life Jesus led. Probably not the best summary but the message spoke to me. Had me thinking about how often I’ve been buying things I don’t really need.

On My Bedside Table

The usual, lamp and phone charger. Of course, I’m not sure what’s in the drawer. And I also have some sweaters to put away stacked on the open shelving part.  I also keep my camera in the open shelving part.

On My TV Tonight

A rare free Monday night here. If The Voice is on tonight, I might watch it. If not, no idea.

On My Reading Pile

Finished If It Bleeds by Stephen King and haven’t started anything new yet. Probably need to check the due date on the My Hygge Home book. Might just spend some time looking at my magazines and garden catalogs this week.

Listening To

Washing machine spin cycle.

On The Lunch Plate

Possibly a grilled cheese maybe with tomato soup

On The Dinner Plate

Grilled pork chops, asparagus, baked potatoes

On The Menu This Week

Not too much going on this week.

MONDAY: Grilled Pork Chops, Asparagus, Baked Potatoes, and I think I’m making a strawberry pie

TUESDAY: Chicken Parmigiana (precooked chicken patties) , salad *I work 8:15-3:45*

WEDNESDAY: Roast in the Crock Pot

THURSDAY: Husband’s Choice *Mom’s Night Out* *I work 2:30-6*

FRIDAY: Chicken and Noodles

SATURDAY/SUNDAY IDEAS: Leftovers/Chili/Burgers/Hot Dogs/ OUT

On My To Do List 

Lots of things. We’ll see how many happen today…this is more of a for the week list.

1. Call trash company about getting some yard waste stickers
2. Wash all the bedding
3. Replace the Terro in the pantry/bathroom (trying to get ahead of the spring ants)
4. Make a potential meal list from items in the pantry and freezer (both need a good clearing)
5. Prep fruit and veggies in fridge
6. Pick the blooming daffodils before the freezing weather arrives
7. Buy cat food (need to check our local Target for this)
8. Clean the house
9. Get more starter trays to start veggie seeds
10. Make a strawberry pie

Plans This Week

Get all the bedding washed and changed over (both boys still have flannel sheets on their beds), Go to Mom’s Night Out, and do a little Spring Break planning (it’s next week)

What I’m Creating 

Nothing currently, just starting to think of what I want to plant in the front yard flower garden and on the front porch.

Simple Pleasure

Springtime! 

Looking Around The House 

Um, don’t you want to look around the yard instead? I can show you our blooming daffodils?

It’s even nice enough we can sit on the front porch bench though there aren’t any blooming flowers yet.

From The Camera

As you can hopefully tell, I did pick the camera up a bit more often last week.

Quote For The Week

For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. (Matthew 6:21) 

********************

Day 64/365