Seems a bit quiet in blogland this morning. Maybe because it’s almost Christmas? Six days if you’re counting.

Still, I need to stay on track this week so I’m joining in as always with Sandra over at Diary Of A Stay At Home Mom for the Happy Homemaker Monday link up.

The Weather

The snow-magedon of rush hour predicted for this morning didn’t happen. It did snow for perhaps 5 minutes while I was in the grocery store. Maybe it’s doing a bit more now, not sure. It’s above freezing at a balmy 36 degrees so nothing is bothering the roads. Our big snow is due for Thursday along with the famous “arctic air” where temps are supposed to be in the teens and the windchill below zero. Right now Christmas is supposed to be a balmy 16 degrees. White Christmas though…

As I Look Outside My Window 

I saw a bit of snow on the wet ground. Neighbors haven’t deflated their Christmas decorations yet so it’s a cheery view looking across the street.

Right Now

Working on this post to hopefully help sort out in my mind the things I need to do in the coming days.

Thinking And Pondering

It’s a bit early but I’m starting to think about my word for the year in 2023. This is just the time of year a word or “theme” for the next year starts kind of swirling and whispering in my subconscious. With the pace with which 2022 blazed by us, I’m leaning toward words like slow or pause for 2023. Or appreciate, relish. It’s just been on my mind how rushed everything feels and I’m searching for a word to focus on putting space between the holidays/major events next year. And yes, I get that it’s the very idea of what I’m doing now instead of focusing on Christmas.

How I Am Feeling This Morning

So much better. I should’ve known when I started feeling grouchy/emotional Friday night. Yep, one of the 7 plagues of preschool finally caught me. Stomach bug variety. Thankfully, it was a quick though miserable bug.

Listening To

Earlier I was listening to the cat purr as she sat here watching me type, then fuss as she wanted me upstairs with her. Also, heard J getting up and fixing his breakfast. Now, it’s fairly quiet again.

On The Breakfast Plate

Coffee, vitamins, Stollen (German fruitcake?), and a caramel brulee latte from Starbucks

On The Lunch Plate

No idea quite yet and it’s lunch time already so I really do need to decide

On The Dinner Plate

Pork chops, baked potatoes

What I’m Wearing Today

Long-sleeved v-neck purple sweatshirt, jeggings, tennis shoes

On My Reading Pile

An Unwanted Inheritance by Imogen Clark. I was happy to discover this as she’s one of my favorite authors. Last week I finished up Every Day in December by Kitty Wilson, a nice holiday quick holiday romance read. Good character development in it.

On My TV

The Chiefs. I’ll say I’m glad they won and that I hope the referees from that game are giving their families really nice presents with their take. Ugh, one sided calling much. Ugly but a win is a win (and a division championship for the 7th year in a row, we’re a little spoiled here in KC). Also, The Sound of Music was on last night. Despite all the streaming services, isn’t it nice to still stumble on a favorite on regular tv?

Also watched Elf, Polar Express, A Christmas Story Christmas, and The Holiday Baking Championship (get to see who won today!). And then because we wouldn’t want to get too cheery, I also started watching Litvenenko on AMC+. If you’re a David Tennant fan you already know this but he’s an amazing actor!

On My Menu

Well, with the cold weather I planned a bit of a more hearty menu. However, since it’s a hustle and bustle time of year, it’s all subject to change.

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

TUESDAY: chili

WEDNESDAY: stuffed peppers *I have a hair appt at 9:30*

THURSDAY: white chicken chili

FRIDAY: OUT *G and J are eating out with their grandpa, who knows what we’ll do*

SATURDAY: Christmas Eve *Candlelight Christmas Eve service at 5* Thinking maybe Subway for a late lunch/heavy snacks after service

SUNDAY: Christmas *Spaghetti at my brother’s house*

Looking Around The House

Maybe it’ll be clean by Christmas. Maybe.

On My To Do List

Good question….

1. Get gift card for J’s baritone instructor/deliver gift tonight
2. Make Norwegian gingerbread cookies (dough is done, chilled overnight, just need bake)
3. Finish up Christmas shopping/stocking stuffers
4. Grocery store *DONE*
5. Make peanut brittle
6. Target for cat food plus a few other items
7. Guess I should clean the house
8. Eat too many Christmas goodies/watch Christmas movies/tv
9. Write and publish this post as well as my Blogmas post
10. Call text/friend who’s been on my mind

From The Camera

Went for a walk yesterday around 4PM, it was in the low 30’s so a bit brisk. Still glad I got out and took advantage of the fresh air and bits of sunshine.

What I’m Creating

Cookies, peanut brittle (hopefully)

Quote For The Week

“Then the Grinch thought of something he hadn’t before! ‘Maybe Christmas,’ he thought, ‘doesn’t come from a store. Maybe Christmas … perhaps … means a little bit more! 

Dr. Seuss in How The Grinch Stole Christmas

First, yes, every week is a real life edition of my post. This one I just decided to show the nitty gritty messy house pictures with it. Just in case, someone else is feeling a bit overwhelmed like I am over here.

Not working today at work but oh at home, the to-do list seems endless this morning! And in true Monday morning fashion, my camera battery died right as I was taking my photos. So, not too many, all un-edited as well.

Hoping that joining in with Sandra over at Diary Of A Stay At Home Mom for Happy Homemaker Monday will help me get on track.

The Weather

Gloomy and grey. It also started misting just as I arrived home from the store. (We’re not supposed to get rain until Wednesday but I guess the actual weather had different plans). It’s above freezing at least, right around 40 degrees. It was in the low 30’s with a blustery wind when I opened the door for the cat in the dark morning hours.

Tuesday, now I guess is the big rain day with a high in the low 50’s and then, temps all over the place in the 40’s and 30’s. Next week the big cold front is due. Who knows what weather we’ll actually get. I’m just hoping to see the sun again sometime today.

As I Look Outside My Window

Gray skies, dreary day, birds waiting to be fed but may have to wait a bit longer. (I’ve started only filling my feeders every other days thanks to very greedy squirrels and a flock of house sparrows).

Right Now

Working on this post a minute after putting away the groceries I just bought at the store this morning.

Thinking And Pondering

Holy cow, did grocery store prices jump again, or is it just me? On a happier note, I’m thinking how thankful I am to be able to go to the grocery store without wearing a mask and make small talk (mostly about the awful grocery store prices, LOL) with random strangers/fellow shoppers again. Despite the crazy high prices, people were very civil, kind, and nice this morning. So grateful to live in an area where that is the norm.

How I Am Feeling This Morning  

Physically: My back is hurting a bit, no injury, just slept on the couch for a bit last night. I was having trouble sleeping and bothering my husband (who had to go to work very early) so I opted to sleep on the couch so he could rest. 

Mentally: A bit overwhelmed with everything. So much to do before Christmas, the house is a mess, my to-do list is a million miles long. Just needing to clear some clutter and take a few deep breaths. Hoping I get a chance to do those things this week.

On The Breakfast Plate

Coffee, vitamins, a chocolate chip granola bar (before the grocery store), more coffee in the form of a Starbucks caramel brulee latte and a cheese danish as well (after the grocery store).

On The Lunch Plate

Probably going to use leftovers from last night to make BBQ pork sandwiches (we had pulled pork and rice last night)

On The Dinner Plate

I’m not sure, currently at this point in my post I’m trying to decide between: Korean BBQ meatballs, stuffed peppers, or white chicken chili. Leaning toward the stuffed peppers to use up the rice I made last night as well.

What I Am Wearing Today

A purple v-neck sweater, jeggings, purple alpaca socks (found some on sale over at Etsy and wanted to try them…still undecided), and tennis shoes. Probably going to change into a black t-shirt as I do things around the house as I’m already getting hot in the sweater.

On My Reading Pile

Just finished re-reading one of my Christmas favorites. I highly recommend this one if you are looking for a sweet, Christmas romance escape kind of book. Really wish the author would write a few more books in English! (She’s a Norwegian author and the book is set on an island off the coast of Norway)

On My TV

If you need a break from Christmas movies, we all loved Bullet Train on Netflix. Very funny story of a bullet train full of assassins. Christmas movie I watched: Spirited on Apple Plus. Very good and also funny. Finally, finally finished The Walking Dead. Not the most impressive (by far) series finale I’ve ever watched. And so many spin off shows coming! Ugh. Will I still watch most of them? Sigh. Probably.

And of course, Football. An ugly win is still a win. The Chiefs better step it up a notch if they have any hopes of beating Buffalo or (ugh, Cincinnati). Or pretty much any other team.

On My Menu

Talked to my brother on my birthday last week, he’s doing spaghetti for Christmas so….need to keep that off the men for the next couple weeks.

MONDAY: Leaning toward stuffed peppers *J has a lesson at 6:30*

TUESDAY: White chicken chili

WEDNESDAY: Roast in the crockpot *J has an appt at 11* *I work 1:30-6*

THURSDAY: Hot dogs, chips, veggies *J has a dentist appt at 1*

FRIDAY: Korean BBQ meatballs, rice, maybe I’ll get fancy and go get some spring rolls from Panda Express (I don’t like much else from there but I love their spring rolls!)

Looking Around The House 

I’ve already shared that ugliness with you in pics throughout this post.

On My To Do List

1. Grocery store *DONE*
2. Target/Sam’s Club
3. Pay bills
4. Clean the house
5. Finish Laundry
6. Fill out forms for J’s appt on Thursday
7. Order some Christmas presents
8. Inventory of stocking stuffers
9. Blogmas catch up (this will help motivate me for #8 as that’s where I’m at in the days)
10. Bit of Christmas baking
11. Finish decorating for Christmas (seems to be a cycle, I want the house clean and by the time the house is clean, I’m too tired to decorate. By the time I’m ready to decorate, the house is a mess again)
12. Spend some time on a de-clutter around here

From The Camera

Didn’t do a good job picking up the camera last week. Only picture I took last week was of my birthday cake. All other pics in post are from today.

Quote For The Week

Come to me all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. (Matthew 11:28)

Another week that went from not so busy to whirlwind within a day. No post yesterday as I went into work at 7a.m., then the grocery store, and followed that with taking J to his lesson. Went to be early again.

However, it’s a new day and time to join in for Happy Homemaker Monday hosted by Sandra over at Diary Of A Stay At Home Mom. I’m only a day late so that’s not too bad.

The Weather

Just pick something and we’ve probably had it. Today does look like a normal gloomy December day. It’s currently 37 degrees and feels like it might rain. Not supposed to rain until Thursday. Really, this week is fairly normal for us with highs in the mid to upper 40’s.

As I Look Outside My Window

It looks a bit more like fall with leaves on the ground and cloudy skies. Birds at my birdfeeder. The group of sparrows hanging out goes through so much birdseed. I’ve started only filling the feeders every other day, sometimes I go a bit longer.

Right Now

Trying to get this post done. I finished my Blogmas post first and spent longer on it than I planned. Had some issues with my images showing up. Frustrating. Hoping I don’t have the same issues when I go to add them here.

Thinking And Pondering

Christmas. Really need to take stock of what gifts I have already and what I still need to get. Also, need to have a rough outline of our holiday. 

How I Am Feeling This Morning

So very grateful to be feeling good. Lots of sickness going around in our area and at my work.

On The Breakfast Plate

Maple brown sugar instant oatmeal, two sausage patties, plus coffee. And vitamins. And a black elderberry gummy (disgusting, need to get more syrup but Target was out on Sunday night and I forgot to look at the store yesterday)

On The Lunch Plate

No idea

On The Dinner Plate

Feels like perhaps a spaghetti night but I’m not sure

What I’m Wearing Today

A red Grinch tee-shirt that says “Define naughty” and brown pants, tennis shoes

On My Reading Pile

Just finished Christmas in the Little Irish Village by Michelle Vernal. It was enjoyable enough. Not sure what I’ll read next. I did manage to get to the library and get my on hold books last week. Been a while since I had a “real” book to read vs. reading one on the phone. (Oh, I guess I did also read Grumpy Monkey, Oh, no! Christmas as well. The preschool kids all enjoyed it)

On My TV

Not too much. Watched a couple Christmas movies over the weekend: Gremlins and A Christmas Story. Most of a certain football game we shall speak of no more. Darn Cincinnati curse! Hopefully, paybacks are coming or we don’t have to play them again (not sure which one I should be hoping for here). Holiday Baking Championship, it’s one of my favorite things to watch during the holidays.

On My Menu

I can tell it’s going to be an off week for menu planning but let’s get some ideas on here anyway.

MONDAY: My husband had pulled pork and rice, J and I had loaded baked potatoes, then he had nachos later after his lesson. G went out. *I worked 7-1:30* *J had a lesson at 6:30*

TUESDAY: Spaghetti? *I work 3-6*

WEDNESDAY: OUT *It’s my BIL’s birthday and they are all going to a local BBQ restaurant* *I have MNO and so will go my own way to a friend’s house, not sure what I’ll eat*

THURSDAY: Maybe pepper steak? Carry over from last week.

FRIDAY: OUT? (My birthday) *We have a hand bell Christmas concert to attend at 7*

Looking Around The House

Not today. It’s on the list. Let’s leave it at that.

On My To Do List

All the things. Sigh.

1. Grocery store *DONE*
2. Catch up on a bit of laundry
3. Finish decorating for Christmas
4. Christmas shopping
5. Clean the whole house
6. Clean the basement **priority as G has a friend coming home on leave from army who may stay here a couple days**
7. Figure out what I have for Christmas gifts/still need to get
8. Maybe some baking
9. Find out shipping dates
10. Other things I’m sure I’m forgetting

From The Camera

Last week was more of a work week than a pick up the camera week. So not much to share.

Quote For The Week

The book I just finished started each chapter with an Irish blessing. I liked this one.

This Christmas may you have Walls for the wind And a roof for the rain, And drinks bedside the fire, Laughter to cheer you, And those you love near you, And all that your heart may desire.

(Irish Christmas Blessing)

Well, I spoke the words out loud. Looks like I’m going to have a slow week with work. Oops! Not so much a slow week now.

Already way too close to bedtime so this is going to be a quick post as well. Still wanted to join in with Sandra at Diary Of A Stay At Home Mom to plan the week.

The Weather

Who knows. It was rainy and cold this morning, then hit the mid 40’s and is supposed to be in the 60’s on Tuesday before turning cold again. Just pick a season and wait a few minutes. We’ll get it for you.

As I Look Outside My Window

It’s dark but if I looked out the front window I could see all the neighbor’s nice Christmas decorations in their yard.

Right Now

I should probably be going to bed instead of writing this post.

Thinking and Pondering

We had a busy weekend so very little Christmas decorating happened. Thinking about whether I want to try to do it during the week or wait until the weekend. Also, what on Earth I’m going to do with the preschool kids tomorrow (the teacher I’m covering for called today thinking she might have the flu so no plan).

How I Am Feeling

Tired. A bit achy in my hands and legs (from the weather I think).

On The Breakfast Plate

I made blueberry muffins (from a mix though I did throw in some extra blueberries)

On The Lunch Plate

Fish Sandwich and Fries from Culvers

On The Dinner Plate

Nothing, lunch didn’t set well. Picked up rotisserie chicken for rest of family to eat.

What I’m Wearing Today

It was Chief’s Sunday so a red shirt/black pants but for tomorrow (Monday) I have no idea. Might be a leggings and sweater kind of day. Hopefully, it won’t get too hot if I go that route.

On My Reading Pile

Christmas at the Island Hotel by Jenny Colgan. How I started with the 4th book in a series I have no idea. Lots of books I must find time to go pick up at the library!

On My TV

Football (Really enjoyed the Buffalo vs Detroit game on Thanksgiving and of course, what I got to see of the Chiefs game this afternoon). Enchanted and Disenchanted on Disney Plus. Love the first, and also loved the second one!

On My Menu

Well, my grocery run is going to be off tomorrow…so let’s see what we can pull from things we have already.

MONDAY: Brisket (in freezer), maybe baked potatoes? *I work 8-4:30* *J has a lesson at 6:30*

TUESDAY: Spinach chicken skillet *I work 1:30-3:30 but think it might get extended*

WEDNESDAY: Pepper steak *J has an appt at 11*

THURSDAY: No idea, maybe pork chops (from freezer)

FRIDAY: We have dinner plans with friends to meet at a Japanese Steakhouse

Looking Around The House

We got new recliners today to replace a broken double love seat! Everything else is in a bit of chaos.

On My To Do List

1. Write and schedule this post
2. Grocery store at some point
3. Clean and decorate for Christmas
4. Organize December bills, it’s tax season *yay* *sarcasm* (maybe pay 1 that’s due super early)
5. Few texts/phone calls to make/send
6. Probably lots of other stuff I can’t think of right now

From The Camera

My husband and I had a bit of an adventure on Saturday. We went to a small town to shop, then to pick up his deer, and then to his hunting lease land to talk to the owner. Snapped some pictures of the land area

Quote For the Week

Found on Pinterest. Orginial source: Allwording

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

**Please forgive any glaring typos/grammar errors on this post as it’s very late and way past my bedtime now**

Are you ready for turkey day? I had a brief moment of panic this morning when I couldn’t locate my cranberry sauce recipe but thankfully, I found it. Back from a quick early morning grocery store trip (not too busy yet, whew!) and ready to plan the rest of the week. 

Time to join in with Sandra over at Diary Of A Stay At Home Mom and the other fabulous bloggers who participate in the weekly link up.

The Weather

It’s been COLD (for November). Back to normal this week with highs in the upper 40’s/low 50’s. Think they added a chance of rain for either Friday or Saturday. That single digit wind chill stuff was more typical of January/February for us.

As I Look Outside My Window

Putting a different spin on this today. Outside this window, I also have a window open with Bloglovin’ pulled up, a post from My Scandinavian Home, and my Yahoo e-mail. Outside the other windows, the sun is shining in a blue sky and the birds are chirping.

Thinking And Pondering

Where the year went. Why I did so poorly at my 22 for 2022 list. And things I’d like to do to get ready for the Advent.

How I Am Feeling This Morning

Not too bad, slept pretty good. A bit frustrated though as I broke my glasses yesterday. And apparently getting in for an eye-exam is not a same day appointment kind of thing. SIGH. Sam’s club is going to be my last call and then, I’ll just schedule a real appointment somewhere for next week. (My husband taped my glasses together with duct tape for the moment, stylish!)

On The Breakfast Plate

Apple cinnamon instant oatmeal, vitamins, coffee. And more coffee in the form of an Irish Cream cold brew from Starbucks in the grocery store. Pretty sure that one is my favorite of their holiday drinks.

On The Lunch Plate

A sandwich of some sort, chips, maybe grapes or pepper slices.

On The Dinner Plate

Plan tonight is for ham steaks, salad, cornbread. May make potatoes if I feel ambitious.

What I’m Wearing Today

Light purple (not light enough to be called lilac) long sleeved shirt, navy blue leggings, and tennis shoes.

On My Reading Pile

I broke down and read a Christmas book early. If you need light, feel good, escape to the UK or Scotland type stories, read something by Donna Ashcroft. Most her books are on Kindle Unlimited if you have that. I just finished Snowflakes and Secrets in the Scottish Highlands. Probably going to have to have a re-read of some of her books in December. Right now, I’ve just started a new book by a new to me author, Christmas at the Island Hotel. It’s written by Jenny Colgan and somehow I’ve picked up another book set in Scotland. Also, didn’t realize it was 4th in a series. Oops.

On My TV

Mostly Doctor Who. I do, however, plan to make a list of 25 Christmas movies to watch starting on December 1 (or maybe a tiny bit earlier). And of course, how ’bout them….CHIEFS! They certainly like to keep us on the edge of ours seats around here. Hoping the next game YAWN might be at noon though.

On The Menu

As much as I enjoy the holidays, they do make menu planning a bit of a pain. Well, it’s a bit of a pain anyway.

MONDAY: ham steaks, salad, corn bread *J has a lesson at 6:30*

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

WEDNESDAY: chicken sausage, broccoli, orzo skillet *I work 7:30-4*

THURSDAY: Thanksgiving at my brother’s house with turkey/ham/fixings. I’m bringing homemade cranberry relish and chocolate meringue pie.

FRIDAY: Leftovers

Looking Around The House

Ugh. Needs tidying/cleaning.

On My To Do List

1. Grocery store *DONE*
2. Make eye appointment (get new glasses, way overdue)
3. Take J for a hair cut (his request)
4. Write and schedule a couple blog posts
5. Wash bedding *in progress*
6. Take stock of stocking stuffers
7. Make cranberry sauce and chocolate pie (probably do this on Thursday as dinner isn’t until 4)
8. change out bathroom shower curtain/bedding for holiday stuff
9. Start watering the amaryllis again, somehow I have 3!
10. All the other stuff I can’t remember right now

From The Camera

I went back to the same park as last week, these photos are mostly from a different section of it. It really is a very big park. And I’m so excited to share the bird I saw this time (I’m going to make you wait until Wednesday for that). 

Quote For The Week

And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called to one body. And be thankful. (Colossians 3:15)

Well, this week marks a milestone for us. After Tuesday, I’ll officially be the mom of adult children. Yikes! Of course, I guess I should say young adults because research shows our brains aren’t even fully developed until the mid to late 20’s. 

However, before all that, perhaps I’ll just focus on the planning of the week. Joining in with Sandra over at Diary Of A Stay At Home Mom.

The Weather

Not as cold but still too cold for the 2nd week in November. Getting cloudy and cooler. AND we’re under a winter weather advisory starting later tonight. It’s supposed to start raining tonight, then change over to snow! Highs in the low to mid 30’s most the week but morning lows in the upper teens. I’m so confused, this is not our typical November weather.

As I Look Outside My Window

Probably lots of annoyed birds (and squirrels) because I’m out of bird seed. Menards is next on my to-do list this morning.

Thinking And Pondering

Our Thanksgiving plans. Still up in the air. And I guess it’s the weather, I’m also looking ahead to Christmas and thinking about gifts. I saw some really cute coffee mugs (Golden Girls on them) at the grocery store and am debating them for gifts for one of my friend groups. They weren’t super expensive.

We don’t normally do gifts so I’m in that place between “these would be so fun!” and not wanting to hear some that would probably be upset at getting a gift because “we don’t do gifts/I didn’t get anyone anything/etc.” Probably overthinking the whole thing really.

How I Am Feeling This Morning

Not too bad though this cold weather was making me a bit achy. Definitely not feeling old enough to have a son turning 18 tomorrow. (The new sub at work told me she thought I was in my 30’s so I’m feasting on that compliment for another week or two)

On The Breakfast Plate

Had the new usual of oatmeal yesterday so this morning I went ahead and ate a cinnamon sugar swirl bagel. And I’ve drank way too much coffee plus a flat white mocha from the grocery store Starbucks. Need to take my vitamins still.

On The Lunch Plate

Not sure yet. Either soup (I finally cleaned/organized our pantry!) or just a pbj.

On The Dinner Plate

Depending on the weather, I might grill pork chops early or if not, probably just turkey sausages and chips, fruit (My husband and J will cut their turkey sausages up and cook them with hash browns, G and I will eat ours on a bun)

What I Am Wearing Today

I was thinking it’s a good thing this isn’t a Friday question or the answer would pretty much always be the same since during football season, every Friday is red Friday for Chiefs fans. However, today I’m wearing a long-sleeved black tee-shirt, jeans, and tennis shoes.

On My Reading Pile

Here’s a new answer. Nothing. Just a few magazines. I’ll need to find a book before J’s lesson tonight though.

On My TV

If you have Netflix and are looking for something lighter, I highly suggest watching Blockbuster. It’s a shorter comedy series about the last Blockbuster store. Other than that, still working my way through Doctor Who, trying very hard to give Jodie Whittaker a chance but at this point not overly impressed. I actually like the companions in this series better. Football, of course. Hoping to actually catch The Masked Singer on Wednesday. And I still need to get back to The Walking Dead.

On My Menu

This week is thankfully a little less busy than last week.

MONDAY: turkey sausages or pork chops, depending on the weather (want to grill the pork chops so if it’s raining I’ll skip it but if not, maybe) *J has a lesson at 6:30*

TUESDAY: J’s requested Fettucine Alfredo for his birthday dinner and I have no idea. I bought a jarred sauce (I’ll have to make red sauce for my husband who won’t eat alfredo sauce). Or we might go out to a restaurant. Depends on the weather a bit. Cookie cake. *J’s 18th birthday*

WEDNESDAY: Whichever meal I don’t make today, I’ll do on Wednesday. *I work 1:30-5:30*

THURSDAY: Chili *I work 11:30-5*

FRIDAY: Pizza, leftovers, or OUT

Looking Around The House

It’s not awful but my husband is due back from hunting today so I don’t even want to think about what it’ll look like after he unloads all the stuff he took.

On My To Do List

1. Grocery Store *DONE*
2. Menards for bird seed
3. This post *In progress*
4. Clean the bathrooms/fly lady missions
5. Water plants
6. Figure out our Thanksgiving plans
7. Finish laundry (most of it is done)
8. Tasks on my other list (I’m trying something new and following along with Diane in Denmark’s holiday planning lists)
9. Wrap J’s birthday present/maybe look into getting him one more small present
10. Pay bills due at end of month (just a couple that came in after I paid everything else)

From The Camera

Since the sun was shining yesterday and I knew they were predicting yucky weather for the next few days, I skipped out on the 2nd half of the Chiefs game to go for a walk. Most the photos in this post are from my walk. I’ll probably share more of my bird photos (ones actually in focus) on Wednesday but I was so excited to see one of my very favorites, a cedar waxwing!

Quote For The Week

This is the day the Lord had made; We will rejoice and be glad in it. (Psalm 118: 24)

Happy the sunrise is at a reasonable time again day! I know, so many hate the dark nights but as a morning person I love having the sunrise before almost 8.  And, just have to say it again, the days get naturally shorter and longer.

Putting my post together on a Sunday because the week ahead looks to be a bit busy. I’ll link up either tomorrow evening or Tuesday with Sandra over at Diary Of A Stay At Home Mom so I can still join in the fun. Who knows maybe the week won’t be as busy as I think. However, I want to have a plan either way.

The Weather 

Well, weird. Saturday morning we had snow mixed with rain (thankfully, no sticking!) and today was absolutely beautiful with a high of about 60. Tomorrow, the temps climb up predicted to be in the mid 70’s and then, like a roller coaster…down we go! High of 77 Thursday falls to a high of 39 degrees on Friday. Whew! Of course, who knows what the weather will actually do.

As I Look Outside My Window

After starting this post earlier this morning, I went out and took advantage of the sun. Now, it’s dark outside.

Right Now

Trying to sneak in a bit more work on this post before taking J to band practice and myself to Target.

Thinking And Pondering

My work tomorrow (really trying to decide what to wear…deep thought I know), ideas on how I can perhaps eat a little better in November, and how to keep my e-mail inbox sorted.

How I Am Feeling

Pretty good. My back stopped hurting after Friday and I am so thankful for that. Hopefully, I won’t wake up with regrets about rototilling the wildflower garden area this afternoon.

On The Breakfast Plate

I’ve decided to trade in my usual flip yogurts for instant oatmeal all this month and see if I feel a bit better. Probably going to have to add a little extra protein item to it on work days though. Coffee, vitamins…the constants.

On The Lunch Plate

A BLT with the last semi-full sized summer tomato from the garden. It was good, too.

On The Dinner Plate

My husband cooked a ham and pork butt on the smoker but we ended up having pizza. (They weren’t ready in time)

What I’m Wearing Today

Long-sleeved Chiefs tee-shirt, jeans, tennis shoes

On My Reading Pile

Last week I finished two books that were quick thriller reads. All the Missing Girls by Megan Miranda didn’t really impress me. Oddly, I think this is the book of hers with the most hype but a lot of her other books are so much better. One of Those Faces by Elle Grawl was my free Amazon prime choice for November. It started out with a lot of promise before fizzling out at the end. I’ve just started The Dark Room by Lisa Gray, I generally really like her books so I’m hopeful.

On My TV

*UPDATE* It’s now Monday. Well, nothing to say here but How ‘Bout Those….Chiefs! Full confession: I had to take J to band practice so heard the beginning on the radio and then, SIGH, I fell asleep right as overtime started. Nice to wake up to a win though. Not much else, I’ve been working my way through Doctor Who.

On The Menu

Good question. No time for the store this morning.

MONDAY: Either ham or pulled pork, asparagus if we have ham. I don’t think it goes with the pork. *J has a baritone lesson at 6:30* *I work 8-4:30*

TUESDAY: So far the only day I don’t work this week. Not sure, I know I’m planning to make an apple cake (finally) *Election Day*

WEDNESDAY: Something easy, maybe chicken sausage and orzo skillet *I work 8-4:30* *MNO*

THURSDAY: Something I can throw in the crock pot…roast? *I work 3-6*

FRIDAY: See above. Maybe spicy potato soup depending on what I make Thursday *I work 3-6*

(I’ll probably put together a better menu plan tomorrow after I go to the store later tonight)

Looking Around The House

PASS although it was mostly clean Saturday but then, it turns out we live here. SIGH.

On My To Do List

1. Research what is on our local ballot by visiting Ballotpedia
2. Mail SIL her birthday card
3. Shop for J’s birthday (next week)
4. Usual: Laundry and Grocery Store
5. Plant rest of flower bulbs for spring blooms
6. Whatever else I’ve forgotten

From The Camera

Quote For The Week

A bit of an odd place to find inspiration perhaps but this was on the Philosophy face cleanser sample I used this morning (unrelated, I really need to order more face cleanser as I’m almost out and down to using free samples).

Progress is baby steps, and little bits of momentum. These micro-moments make a lasting difference in our wellbeing.

********

Happy Halloween! It’s always a bit odd when Halloween falls on a Monday isn’t it?  My thoughts are certainly with the teachers for today and the rest of this week.

This morning, I’ve already ran to the grocery store and now I’m taking a moment to join in with Sandra over at Diary Of A Stay At Home Mom for the Happy Homemaker Monday weekly link up.

The Weather

It’s going to be a warm one for our trick-or-treaters tonight. A predicted high of 70 today! Highs in the upper 70’s all week until Friday when we have a 50% chance of some much needed rain. Supposed to be in the lows 60’s next week.

As I Look Outside My Window

I was watching the birds (and squirrels) at my bird feeders taking advantage of this beautiful morning. Somehow, the fallen leaves are now covering the yard. And the oak tree leaves are finally starting to change a bit more.

Thinking And Pondering

I’ve been so serious in this category lately, how about a little fun and silliness?

My radio announcers this morning were asking the question: If you could go trick or treating at 3 celebrity houses, who would you choose? So I’ve been thinking on that.

My choices: Ryan Reynolds (I just think his house would be fun!), Adam Sandler (again, somehow I think his house would be a fun Halloween one), and one of the Kardashian people (I’ve never seen their shows but I could use a make-over and wonder if they’d be handing out beauty product goody bags? I’ve been feeling the need for a make-over.)

Some local choices on the radio show were: Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce, Paul Rudd, The Rock, Ryan Reynolds, Heidi Klum (I guess she does big Halloween parties?), and Kelly Clarkson.

Who would you choose?

How I Am Feeling This Morning

I’ve done something to my back and it started really hurting yesterday. It’d been hurting just a little all week. So I’m sitting here with one of those Thermacare heat wraps on it. Seems to be helping.

On The Breakfast Plate

Coffee, vitamins, more coffee in the form of a Starbucks white mocha toffee nut. It was a barista choice and very good! And a blueberry muffin (made from a box, leftover from yesterday).

On The Lunch Plate

Not sure yet but thinking maybe cheesy chicken nachos as we have leftover rotisserie chicken.

On The Dinner Plate

Current plan is homemade corndogs (carry over from last week), broccoli, chips, and Halloween brownies/cookies for dessert.

What I Am Wearing Today

A black tee-shirt with a black cat Halloween design, jeans, tennis shoes

On My Reading Pile

Working my way through The Winners by Frederik Bachman. He creates such amazing characters and slowly builds the plot. His style probably isn’t for everyone but I enjoy it.

On My TV

Over the weekend I watched a couple of Disney movies. The first, The Princess and the Frog, I’d never seen it. It was really good, I enjoyed the music and the story line a lot. A little different from the sing-song type movies of Disney. No idea why both my boys had seen this movie but not me. Then, I watched Lilo and Stitch, some younger teachers at work really like it and I couldn’t remember a lot about it. It was still just okay for me. I’ll probably watch a few Halloween movies today.

On My Menu This Week

These Target cookies! If you ever had/remember the old Venture stores and the bakery with the butter cookies. These are as close as I’ve ever had to those.

MONDAY: Homemade corn dogs, broccoli, chips, Halloween brownies/cookies *J has a baritone lesson at 5*

TUESDAY: Chicken enchiladas *I have a hair appt at 9:30*

WEDNESDAY: BLT’s, French Fries

THURSDAY: Spicy potato soup

FRIDAY: Leftovers or maybe OUT

Looking Around The House

It’s looking a little cluttered, I need to tidy/clean.

On My To Do List

This list is going to depend on how my back feels.

1. Grocery store *DONE*
2. Finish up laundry
3. Clean House
4. Pay Bills
5. Finish Cleaning Yard up and plant spring bulbs
6. Go get bird seed at Menard’s (probably take J with me to lift it)
7. Trade out Halloween pumpkin decorations for fall/Thanksgiving turkey stuff
8. Get a new frame for J’s Thanksgiving poem (old one broke)
9. Bake brownies for dinner tonight
10. Early holiday planning/maybe

From The Camera

I’m still sharing Arkansas pictures in this post (with the exception of the photos of the cookies and sunrise)

Quote For The Week

It’s not how much we give but how much love we put into giving. (Mother Teresa)

And I do know that it is actually Tuesday. My week has already started off going from zero to busy workwise. However, over the weekend, we had a nice relaxing time with friends in Arkansas staying at a cabin near the Buffalo National River. 

I have to leave for work very soon but wanted to get my post up real quick before I did. We’ll see if I can manage it. May be a shorter Happy Homemaker Monday today that I link up with Sandra over at Diary Of A Stay At Home Mom.

The Weather

Rained all day yesterday and is still kind of rainy and cool this morning. Highs in the mid 60’s most the week and cooler nights in the lower 40’s. I think that’s normal for this time of year but I’m not sure.

As I Look Outside My Window

It’s gray and gloomy with wet leaves starting to cover the ground. Looks like fall has arrived.

Right Now

Have a timer set as I try to get this post finished before I need to leave for work around 9:10. (Please forgive any typos/grammar errors as my editing time is very limited this morning.)

Thinking And Pondering 

Not much, just trying to get myself ready and out the door plus do too many side jobs (run the dishwasher, start some laundry, etc.) on the way.

How I Am Feeling This Morning

Couldn’t sleep last night so I’ll be paying the price today. Hoping the kids aren’t too crazy with the weather and that it stops raining long enough for us to go outside.

On The Breakfast Plate

Lemon meringue flip yogurt, coffee, vitamins

On The Lunch Plate

Not sure what is for lunch at work. Have my back up protein packed: cheese and peanut butter crackers, an apple, water, and maybe a cookie.

On The Dinner Plate

Pork chops and baked sweet potatoes

What I’m Wearing Today

Old Navy tee-shirt, kind of a muted floral design and navy pants with a ruffle flare looking thing at the bottom (I don’t describe clothes well). Tennis shoes and mismatched socks (spirit week at school)

On My Reading Pile

Just finished The End of Temperance Dare by Wendy Webb. It was a bit too scary for me. Actually had to quit reading it while we were out of town. A good one but super spooky! (Well, at least for this chicken).

On My TV

We didn’t watch tv on our trip, Chiefs game on Sunday (a good one!), probably Masked Singer on Wednesday. Not sure what else.

On My Menu

Always hard to plan after being away. Ha, always hard to plan no matter what. And my schedule is crazy this week (I’m doing a favor for a younger teacher and just covering her a few hours each day so she can do observations for her school stuff)

MONDAY: We had leftover taco soup *I worked 1-5* *J had a baritone lesson at 6:30*

TUEDAY: pork chops and baked sweet potatoes *I work 9:30-4*

WEDNESDAY: Maybe white chicken chili? *I work 1:30-3*

THURSDAY: Spaghetti? *I work 1:30-3*’

FRIDAY: Homemade corndogs (sort of, I bought this biscuit can wrap stuff. We’ll see), chips, fruit *I work 1:30-3*

Looking Around The House

Surprisingly not awful. I did some cleaning yesterday morning before I was called into work.

On My To Do List

1. Grocery store *DONE*
2. Start laundry *DONE*
3. General clean up *In progress*
4. Sort through fridge/freezer/pantry *Ongoing*
5. Other things I can’t think of right now

From The Camera

I have more photos to share but it’s a process to get them edited to the right size for the blog. Hopefully, I’ll able to share some more on Wednesday.

Quote For The Week 

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. (John 14:27)

It’s cold this morning! And due to get even colder later tonight. In the 20’s…what?

Somehow, today has turned into a busy Monday. However, before I jump into that, I’m taking time for the weekly Happy Homemaker Monday link up hosted by Sandra over at Diary Of A Stay At Home Mom.

Let’s just jump right into the categories.

The Weather

It was 36 degrees when I woke up to let the cat out this morning. And it’s still pretty chilly out there, just barely 40 degrees. I know I was wishing I’d grabbed a jacket when I did my grocery store run this morning. We have freeze warnings for tonight and tomorrow night with predicted lows in the mid-20’s. Barely upper 50’s by mid-week but then on Friday, a high of 80. Welcome to the Midwest. Dig out your sweaters but don’t put those summer shorts away quite yet.

As I Look Outside My Window

Well, yesterday I glanced out the bedroom windows into the backyard and saw snowbirds (dark-eyed juncos). Those aren’t supposed to be here until early November. And this morning, I looked out the backdoor and saw a white-throated sparrow. Bit concerned what these early arrivals might mean regarding our upcoming winter.

Right Now

Just taking a minute to ignore the to-do list and work on this post.

Thinking and Pondering

So much. An upcoming trip, some small joys, something that happened at my work on Friday (basically a teacher left, I’m unsure if she quit or was let go…thinking it was a choice), the holiday season, if I want to “compete in a friendly way” with the neighbors who upped their Halloween decorating game, what to do with the rest of my flower garden. Too many thoughts. Might need more (or maybe less?) coffee.

How I Am Feeling This Morning

Not bad, husband was gone hunting Friday and Saturday, so I slept better last night once he was home.

On The Breakfast Plate

vitamins, crappy grocery store donut (it was good though…some kind of blueberry cheesecake thing), and vitamins.

On The Lunch Plate

Either a grilled cheese or PBJ (and Cheetos, maybe a banana, too)

On The Dinner Plate

My plan is for minestrone and homemade crusty bread with apple cake for dessert (we’ll see if the apple cake happens or not)

What I Am Wearing Today

Black tee-shirt, floral pink/purple button down shirt over it as jacket, and jeans. Plus I actually put on socks and tennis shoes today!

On My Reading Pile

Note to self: Do NOT read true crime/ghost story books when husband is out of town. I read my free Amazon Prime choices over the weekend. How weird is it that they were both set in Minnesota?  The first was called The Quarry Girls by Jess Lourey, set in Pantown, Minnesota during  70’s about a serial killer. I actually preferred the second book which was a little scarier than the true crime one of the first. The Stroke of Winter by Wendy Webb was a ghost tale set along the north shore of Lake Superior in the town of Wharton. I’ve read other works by Wendy Webb and always enjoyed them. This one had a bit of a cozy mystery feel to it though it was a bit creepy.

On My TV

The Chiefs, SIGH. The Bills played a good game but it was still a disappointing end. I had to listen to that part in the car as J had band practice, pleading the fifth on whether curse words were uttered. Didn’t get to see Masked Singer last week because of baseball, really hope it’s on this week. Finished Kim’s 
Convenience on Netflix. Not sure what else I’ll watch this week. Need to get back to The Walking Dead.

On The Menu

Just trying to use up a little of what we have on hand.

MONDAY: Minestrone, crusty bread (planning to use the remnants of a veggie tray for my minestrone) *J has a baritone lesson at 6:30*

TUESDAY: Roast in the crockpot *I have Bunco*

WEDNESDAY: Chicken strips, corn on the cob, maybe French Fries

THURSDAY: On their own

FRIDAY: On their own

Looking Around The House

UGH. Enough said.

On My To Do List

1. Grocery store *done*
2. Laundry
3. Clean up around the house
4. Go get birdseed somewhere (probably Mernard’s)
5. Pay bills
6. E-mail J’s school with the homeschool letter
7. Make crusty bread for tonight’s dinner
8. Do Some early Christmas shopping *maybe*
9. Dig out sweaters/hoodies for cold weather this week
10. Things I didn’t do last week

From The Camera

Quote For The Week

Last week/the weekend was a little hard with band senior night/the last band competition and J not being a part of it all. I actually ran across this verse at a time I really needed to see it. Trying to keep it in mind moving forward.

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. (Hebrews 12: 1-2)