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Surprise! Another Post!

Chitchat garden areas Week in Review 2 Comments

Not that I’m counting but I think this means I’ve posted four times this week! On a bit of a roll. Nothing special, just another random one with a review of the past week.

Believe it or not, these morning glories and this post inspired me to write today!

I’ve been tossing morning glory seeds around this post ever since my husband took the fence down a few years ago.  This post is right next to our backyard vegetable garden. I have visions of morning glories winding their way up and around the post. Every year: NOTHING.

However, Tuesday morning as I went out to check the garden. What did I find?

A morning glory tucked behind a few of its leaves quietly blooming away! A nice surprise from a rather rough morning.

Shall we grab a cup of something. And review the week. Maybe lavender? 

This planter, I waited so patiently for it to go on clearance at the grocery store, makes me so happy. And I decided to share the unedited version so you can see the mess on our outdoor table on the deck. I have visions of this gorgeous deck with plants but this is the reality. Maybe next summer.

This Week

Monday and Tuesday

Monday was our 24th wedding anniversary that we celebrated by doing absolutely nothing. I did at least bother to get my husband a card. I’ve just about simmered down over him mostly ignoring it. I did buy myself a few flowers at the garden center. Of course, I’d have done that no matter what.  Not all his fault as I did work that day until almost 6, then take J to his baritone lesson. And the weekend before was busy as well. Next year better be a fantastic trip somewhere though!

Tuesday was rather rough as I mentioned. J didn’t go to school saying he just needed to sleep. We’d got off last week to such a good start that this came out of nowhere for me causing my optimism about the new school year to take a dive. At least I found my morning glory that morning.

Wednesday and Thursday

Wednesday turned out to be a much better day. Took the cat to the vet in the a.m. (finally!) and let me just say putting a cat in a carrier is not a fun one person job.  I thought I had work training but I ended up not having it. So happy about it as I wasn’t in the mood. And G bought my lunch, it was just McDonald’s but it was good. Everyone went where they were supposed to go that day as well.

a bloom on my fall garden zucchini plant

Thursday ended up a full day for me. I worked from 8 until 4. And while I didn’t have the time for Thankful Thursday post (need to get back to those), I did find lots of little items of gratitude. Got to work in my favorite classroom. The school lunch wasn’t messy (it’s a bit of joke for us that whenever I sub for a certain teacher who helps the kids clean after lunch, that day’s lunch is always one of the messiest!). The garden continues to do well.

Last night was a meeting for the parents of the senior band students. And my husband actually went with me. Sure he was probably regretting it though as I’m not one to say nothing (ironic as I was always “the quiet one” who hardly spoke in high school and college). That could be a post all by itself so perhaps I should remain “the quiet one” in this space. Trying to remind myself that as a been there done that parent, I need to think kinder thoughts toward the first time parents of seniors. The difference between the parents of G’s class and J’s class, sigh. Give me the class of 2019 parents any day of the week. Has always been an issue for me.

TODAY: Happy Friday, the start of Labor Day Weekend

Everyone is once again where they belong today. I’m enjoying a few hours of bliss in an empty house before I go pick up J from school and run him to a 3p.m. appt. I’ve watered the gardens, started some laundry. Taken a quick run to the store as we were out of cat food. So I picked up a few snacks for the weekend as well as some strawberries on sale. While I could be filling the house with the scent of an autumn candle, I opted for baking an angel food cake instead.

The rest of this weekend should be low-key for us: out with friends on Saturday night and no plans as of yet for the other days. I’m hoping we manage a visit to a local festival for kettle corn and pork rinds (tradition) and of course, my garden chores are always there.

How was your week? What plans do you have for the upcoming weekend?

 

 

Summer Summary

Chitchat On My Mind 2 Comments

As we say goodbye to August and hello to September, I thought I’d share a summer summary post. And just for the record, I’m well aware it’s still summer until mid-September. However, it’s time to transition to fall. 

And I’m starting that transition by looking back on the summer of 2022 and sharing some things I’d like to remember about it. I’m also starting my post in late May though I also know summer doesn’t technically begin until mid-June.

Over all it was a fairly low-key summer around here but that’s okay. I’m being lazy and sharing pictures already posted in previous posts for this with maybe a bonus photo thrown in here or there.

MAY:

G turned 21! J finished his junior year of high school (whew!). I got a little more serious about my gardening adventures. Even had a rose bloom though sadly said rose bush is no more, we’ll see if it rebounds next year.

And then, it was onto the month that truly starts summer.

JUNE:

J got to go on a band trip to Disneyworld in Florida! I was jealous (as we opted not to go) but happy he obliged my request to text me one photo a day while he was there. The rest of us toiled at our jobs. When he returned from Disney, J had summer school. Thankfully, it went fairly smooth. And my green thumb improved enough to grow flowers out of the cracks in the sidewalks (not really but I did have some volunteer flowers that way). One day I ran into my sister and nephew in a garden center. That was a good day. 

JULY

Definitely our busiest summer month! We had a low-key Fourth of July at home. I worked and watered the garden and flowers. My older brother came into town from Texas and I was able to reconnect with family we’d not seen since 2019 (stupid pandemic and politics!). Three of us went to St. Louis for a music competition for J. We were able to visit the St. Louis arch while there. While J got superior ratings on all his performances, I think my proudest mom moment was on the grounds of the arch when my son stopped to pick up someone else’s abandoned trash and throw it away. Nice to know I at least did something right in raising him to be a good steward of the Earth.

And of course, I worked. Some work weeks were better than others but I generally enjoy summer as I typically work to cover vacations so my schedule is set for a week at a time.

AUGUST

July ended and August started with a sweltering heat wave. Hot even for us summer weather loving types. Band camp for J. More work for me. Less blogging than usual. A summer of Sonic Sour Patch Kid Floats. Another family gathering and reconnecting with more family!  Monthly get togethers with friends, my Mom’s Night Out friends. Game nights the first Saturday of each month with husband and different friends (in honor of his friend who passed away one year ago).

More watering, garden planning. And twice a week filling of the hummingbird feeders.

Since I mentioned J in July, I should mention how proud I am of G’s kindness. Brings me home spring rolls from Panda Express whenever he stops there on his way home from work simply because he knows I love them. Always sharing funny and interesting memes he finds on his phone. And has helped out so much with picking J up from school for us.

And Finally, here we are at the last day of August. My mind is on a very long list of end of season garden chores (though I have plenty of time with our weather here). A stack of new September magazines. Marching band (football) season at the high school with a senior! Fall cleaning. Festivals! Blogging more. Focusing on a sorting and saving (money) kind of September. And a return to the fall tv schedules.

What are you thinking and doing as you say goodbye to August and hello to September?

 

Recipe Repost: Cucumber Salad

Recipes So Not Organized Archives 4 Comments

Since I’ve had to go back to my So Not Organized blog twice now for the recipe, I decided to just add it over here. Hindsight is 20/20 and all that but if I could go back, I’d have stayed on my path to slowly just repost my favorite blog posts here instead of trying to transfer it over to the free word press version in one swoop. The content is still there but all my photos from many years of blogging: gone. SIGH.

Wait, did I say something about a recipe? Yes. It’s a simple one, too. I think everyone has a version of cucumber salad. This is mine. Actually, it’s my late mother-in-law’s recipe as it was usually on the table at any summer family dinner. I loved it and still do. G likes it as well and actually requested it again.

So, once again here is (with brand new updated photos!):

Cucumber Salad

Just four ingredients needed: cucumbers, fresh from the garden if you have some! Thinly sliced red onion. Rice vinegar. And sugar.

I was chatting with an older gentleman in the store a few weeks ago and he said they made their cucumber salad with apple cider vinegar. I’m not so sure about that. Might be because it makes me think of fruit fly traps. Rice vinegar is our go to here.

The basic steps:

Thinly slice cucumbers. I peel mine though sometimes if I feel fancy I leave stripes of the peel.

I bought this last year and I love it! All the tools (mandoline, two different size graters, and the guard) store inside it. And it’s dishwasher safe. OXO Good Grips Mini Complete Grate and Slice Kit.

(Note: I’m not an Amazon affiliate and get no sort of credit for sharing this, just something I like and thought you might as well.)

Place the sliced cucumbers in the a shallow container.

Layer with the thinly sliced red onion (mine is a bit too thick here but we pick around it anyway).

Mix together rice vinegar and sugar. One cup of each. Pour over layered cucumber and red onion slices.

It’s okay if some onion slices are poking up above the liquid but the cucumbers should be covered. Finally, the hard part. Wait several hours to let flavors set in and mingle.

No judgement here if you find yourself getting a fork and eating this straight out of the container when nobody is looking. Do you have a version of cucumber salad?

Happy Homemaker Monday, Still Here

HappyHomemakerMonday 16 Comments

Maybe I should just start planning on taking blogging breaks when school starts. I missed catching up with everyone last week but it was another whirlwind of activity. J’s school started and I continued to help out at the preschool. This week should be a bit more reasonably paced. Maybe.

Definitely missed having a weekly plan in place. I’m glad to have a bit of time this morning to post here and then link up with Sandra over at Diary Of A Stay At Home Mom.

The Weather 

Hot, then rainy, and then hot again. However, not heat advisory hot. Just normal end of August hot. Might thunderstorm this afternoon, then highs in the upper 80’s/low 90’s for the rest of the week.

As I Look Outside My Window

It’s bright and sunny out there. We have 3 (!) little hummingbirds that fight over our feeder and are so entertaining to watch (but hard to catch on camera!).

Right Now I Am

Ignoring a lot of housework to work on this post instead.

Thinking And Pondering

My sunflowers didn’t bloom so I cheated and bought one at the garden center!

It’s the time of year when I get a little garden obsessed. If you can recognize a perennial flower, it’s a great time to shop for flowers for next year. Or replace a few annuals that didn’t quite make it in the drought.  Plus I’m planning a bit of a front yard garden expansion going for a cottage garden look.

How I Am Feeling

Pretty good. Yesterday I was feeling a bit down but being outside works wonders for the mood.

On The Breakfast Plate

Flip yogurt, coffee, vitamins, and a Stoopwafel.

On The Lunch Plate

Good question. I’m not sure. No dinner leftovers (it was a hit!) so maybe just a scrambled egg or something.

On The Dinner Plate

Absolutely no idea. It’s our 24th wedding anniversary but I work until 5:30, followed by needing to get J to his baritone lesson so it’ll be a late dinner.

What I’m Wearing Today

Currently: Black t-shirt, light tan linen look shorts, and leopard print slip on shoes, no socks. Later, for work: probably change into a work t-shirt and some thin cotton pants plus tennis shoes (with socks).

On My Reading Pile

Trying to get through The Secret Life of Trees by Peter Wohlleben but I’m struggling with it. Just started Before She Disappeared by Lisa Gardener. And I’m also casually glancing at all of these:

Ignore the weird slice of sunlight there

 

On My TV

A few too tired to do much else as well as a rare rainy day led to a bit of TV watching. Discovered two series I really enjoyed and very much hope to see second seasons added. The first on Netflix, The Sandman. Kind of a dark fantasy, just enough for those of us who can’t do scary.  And the second, also a bit dark/comedy and drama combo on Apple TV, Severance. Both well worth your time. (On a semi-related note: As I start to evaluate the million streaming services we have here, I think Apple TV is going to replace Hulu for us. We’re too hooked to not be able to see the 3rd season of Ted Lasso).

On The Menu 

Okra bloom!

Anyone know of a chef that will work for free? Must be able to feed a super picky family and do clean up duty. Send them my way!

MONDAY: No idea *I work 1-5:30* *J has a baritone lesson at 6:30* *Our wedding anniversary*

TUESDAY: Fish (from store boxed frozen), cucumber salad (with homegrown cucumbers!), fried okra (with some homegrown okra plus some my brother-in-law gave us)

WEDNESDAY: Pork chops, baked potatoes *Chelsey has an 9:15 vet appt*  *I have work training 1-2:45*

THURSDAY: Chicken fajitas, yellow rice *J has band practice 6-8:45* *I have a senior parent band parent meeting at 7* (Might switch this menu to Wednesday)

FRIDAY: OUT *J has an appt at 3*

Looking Around The House 

My summer loving self is going to need to do some serious fall cleaning at some point. I’m getting that back to school time to clear the clutter restlessness. Just me?

On My To Do List

A glimpse of my garden expansion planning
  1. Lots of outside chores: repotting plants to transition inside, marking off expanded front garden, weeding butterfly garden by driveway edge (it’s an embarrassing mess!)
  2. Clear out pantry/fridge/freezer (this is my typical Labor day weekend project)
  3. Take cat to vet on Wednesday morning
  4. Keep up with laundry (trying the one load a day thing)
  5. Spend some time cleaning the basement area

From The Camera

Should probably add pick up the camera more to the to do list as I ran around taking most the photos in this post this morning.

Quote For The Week

Remember that children, marriages, and flower gardens reflect the kind of care they get.
(H. Jackson Brown, Jr.)

Happy Homemaker Monday, It’s Nice Out

HappyHomemakerMonday 6 Comments

While it was super hot over the weekend again (though not *heat advisory* hot), it’s been cooling down all day and is currently 77 degrees. The rain is on the way! Oh, I hope it finds us soon. Walking on the ground outside feels like walking on concrete because it’s been so hot and dry this summer.

Bit late getting my post up today/tonight. I worked this morning and then spent the afternoon grocery shopping. Shaping up to be one of those busy starts to the week. Let’s look at the week ahead.

The Weather

There was such a pretty sunrise this morning but by the time I found my camera and got it ready, I missed the best of it. This is a view to the south. I was just excited to see a few clouds! It’s supposed to rain later tonight into tomorrow. And then, the next two days the highs are predicted in the mid to high 70’s followed by 2 days with highs in the low 80’s. A much needed break and fall preview.

As I Look Outside My Window

Not the best photo but I couldn’t resist sharing my “star of the flying trapeze” squirrel. The view out the back door window. 

Right Now I Am

Trying to get this post written and published before I need to go pick up J from band practice.

Thinking And Pondering

Whether I want to work a full day on J’s first day of school. He’s going to be a senior. After the last 2 years, instead of feeling excited and sad, I’m just so ready for it all to be done. Hopefully, I’ll find a little more enthusiasm once school starts (next Monday for him).

How I Am Feeling

I’ve got a slight headache which I truly hope means rain is really coming!

On The Breakfast Plate

Key lime flip yogurt, vitamins, and coffee.

On The Lunch Plate

Ate lunch at preschool, it was scrambled eggs (not my favorite), pineapple, and a sausage link. Then, since I only worked until 1, I had a croissant spread with Nutella when I came home.

On The Dinner Plate

Not a stellar food day. I had a chicken sandwich from McDonald’s as G went and got it for him and J while I was at the store. He ordered too much food and offered it to me. My husband ate grocery store rotisserie chicken and potatoes. (Can I just interject that yesterday we had grilled chicken sausage, corn on the cob, grilled broccoli for dinner?)

What I’m Wearing Today

At school, I wore a pink t-shirt with lace eyelet sleeves and loose fitting black Capri pants plus tennis shoes. After work, I traded the Capri pants for a pair of black shorts and my slip on leopard print shoes.

On My Reading Pile

I’m actually between books! Over the weekend, I read Kingdom of Bones by James Rollins. It was about a virus. UGH. However, it was part of a series I really enjoy so managed to enjoy it despite the subject matter being a bit too recent for most of us. (I did feel his pain as he addressed the subject of the book in the forward, how he started writing the book in 2019 right before the world went nuts in 2020. And I am glad he went ahead and finished it as I did learn quite a bit and requested some of his research books (about trees) to read for myself.)

Another quick one I read was a choice on my kindle unlimited by Brian Freeman titled I Remember You. A sci-fi type thriller where the main character has someone else’s memories combined with her own.

On My TV

Finished Ted Lasso, one more episode left of Better Call Saul. G has us all watching a strange one (comedy?) on HBO Max called The Rehearsal. It’s very funny, disturbing at times, and interesting all at once.  Netflix movie called The Grey Man, not that good.

On The Menu

MONDAY: you already read about today’s disaster *I worked 8-1* *J had band practice 6-8:45*

TUESDAY: Spaghetti, garlic bread, salad *I work 8-1* *Appt with counselor at J’s school at 1:30, messed up schedule, sigh* *I have Bunco!!*

WEDNESDAY: Some sort of chicken on the grill? Zucchini *I work 8-1*

THURSDAY: Pepper steak, rice *I work 8-1* *J has band practice 6-8:45*

FRIDAY: Pizza of some sort *I work 8-1*

Looking Around The House

Pass. I even have outdoor chores I’m putting off doing at this point.

On My To Do List

  1. Make a list of some blog post ideas before I forget them!
  2. Pay bills
  3. Find J’s lunchbox. It’s missing?!
  4. Figure out what I’m wearing to work for rest of the week (should be number 1 on list)
  5. Laundry
  6. Grocery store *DONE*
  7. Trim some more outdoor flowers (My petunias started blooming again after I cut them back a few weeks ago)

From The Camera

Yet another week where I barely picked up the camera. Grabbed most of these photos just before I put up this post.

Quote For The Week

I found this new fitness site that’s wait for it….FREE. It’s a faith based fitness thing and I’m doing the 14 day kickstart. I’ll share the link here, I’m only on day four but I’m really loving it so far: Faithful Workouts

Found it on Instagram of all places. Anyway, today’s quote in the Pep talk video was pretty impactful. I’d never heard it before so thought I’d share it here:

As long as habit and routine dictate the pattern of living, new dimensions of the soul will not emerge. (Henry Van Dyke)

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Now, go check out Sandra’s link up over at Diary Of A Stay At Home Mom!

Summer Images From My Phone

Chitchat Just Photos 2 Comments

I realized today that I’ve been dealing with a bit of Blogger’s block. The Happy Homemaker Monday posts are easy enough because the categories are there. However, I just can’t seem to get into a good flow with anything else. Hoping it might pick up again soon because I do miss writing about more than my weekly plans in this space.

Since today is “Wordless Wednesday” in a lot of the blogosphere (look at me with the big fancy words!), I thought I’d pop on here with something simple and hopefully, kind of fun. Summer is coming to a close, here that just means school starts next week (for preschool) and the week after that (for local public schools). Thought I’d just go through my phone and share a few random picks I’ve took with it during each of the summer months so far.

Nothing overly exciting and I may have shared some in the past, not sure at this point. I did try and pick things I’m fairly certain I didn’t previously share in this space. And phone pics so not the best quality.

MAY

Poison Ivy Flowers. Had no idea it made flowers, did you?

Birds from from outside the Kennedy Space Center in Florida (sent to me by J while he was on his Disney trip with the band). We’re still not sure what kind of birds.

And technically, that was a June 1 picture so….

JUNE

Speaking of being technical. I do this so many times it’s almost (it IS) embarrassing. Usually get them deleted but this was in the June photos…

Random screenshot anyone? How about a lovely butterfly on the lemon gem marigolds instead?

Oh how I wish they still looked that pretty. They do not. Dried out and barely clinging to life. I may pass on this variety next spring/summer.

JULY

We got on a bit of a Sonic drink kick especially the Sour Patch Kids Float. I got one just to try it. And then, I got another one. And now, I’m kind of craving it again. Smaller size. Size pictured was a bit much.

In St. Louis, we went to White Castle, a novelty that isn’t in these parts any more though it used to be here. I’m good for another few years though. This rabbit was hanging out in the parking lot.

Not much for this month yet…all food so far. Please, don’t judge.

AUGUST

Cucumber salad made with cucumbers from our very own garden! Then, we kept the “juice” and made a second batch with store cucumbers. I really had to dig for the recipe so will need to put it on here at some point (it is over on So Not Organized with no photos).

Last photo of my post was one I took just for laughs. J loves Cinnamon Toast Cereal but we both agreed this sounded disgusting. You can take the goodness of a flavor/brand a bit too far, I think.

Hope you’ve enjoyed the random sampling of my phone pictures from this summer. Anyone want to go to Sonic with me for a Sour Patch Kids Float?

 

Happy Homemaker Monday, Magnificent So Far

HappyHomemakerMonday 12 Comments

I was on standby to work this morning so up and ready to go by 7:30 but then, I didn’t have to go in after all.  Meant I was ready for the day early. Tended the garden (read watered a few things), went to the store, and made J breakfast.

As I left the store, the door greeter person told me “Have a Magnificent Monday!” and so far I’ve been doing just that. I hope that you are as well! 

Time to get to the business of planning the week ahead with the help of the wonderful link up hosted by Sandra over at Diary Of A Stay At Home Mom.

The Weather

The word of the day suites it! After another weekend of heat advisory weather, a cool front moved into our area. It’s currently 81 degrees and partly cloudy out there. Cooler than our 85 degree and million percent humidity start to the day. No rain in the forecast the rest of the week but highs in the mid-80’s. Sold! I’ll take it.

As I Look Outside My Window

Earlier this morning as I looked out the backdoor window, I watched with amusement as one of our little hummingbirds chased a baby Carolina wren all over the bird feeder area. The poor baby Carolina wren did not know what to think about that bird chasing it.

Right Now I Am

Procrastinating cleaning the disaster in the kitchen and living room. Working on this post.

Thinking And Pondering

How nice it feels to have a completely free Monday. Normally, J would have a lesson tonight but we had to reschedule because of evening band practice. Then, they had to cancel the band practice. So I don’t have to rush to do anything today. Pondering how I can continue to make my Monday “magnificent.” 

How I Am Feeling 

I’m feeling pretty optimistic this morning (early afternoon), slept well. However, I’ve been sneezing a bit. Probably something in the air though my husband came home for lunch and said his stomach was upset over night. Hoping it’s just something he ate (and that I didn’t cook).

On The Breakfast Plate

Something different! Since I had some time and was also cooking for J, I made us toad in the hole eggs with a side of bacon (already cooked from a different day) and a small cinnamon toast round from the bread center. I did overcook the eggs a bit but still good. For me, also coffee (including my grocery store Starbucks caramel macchiato) and vitamins.

On The Lunch Plate

I was thinking grilled cheese while at the store (white American cheese was on sale in the deli) but now, I’m not sure as that seems like a lot of bread on top of our breakfast. Might just play it by ear. UPDATE: G made mac and cheese for him and J. I’ve not eaten lunch yet.

On The Dinner Plate

Current plan is grilled ham steak, corn on the cob, and asparagus plus honey butter crescent rolls (a splurge but oh my, they are so good once in a while!)

What I’m Wearing Today

Light blue capris and a palm leaf design t-shirt that sort of matches the light blue color. Plus since I didn’t go to work, I left on my leopard print slip on Keds tennis shoes that match nothing.

On My Reading Pile

I broke down and bought a couple of Daisy James novels, Wedding Bells at the Villa Limoncello and Summer Dreams at the Villa Limoncello. There’s a third one in the triology but I switched things up and am reading Trapper Road (Stillhouse Lake, #6) by Rachel Cane and Carrie Ryan. It’s a good series and book but kind of sad to read as the original author, Rachel Cane, passed away before finishing her manuscript and her friend finished it. It is true to her style and I am enjoying the story.

On My TV

I was on a bit of TV kick over the weekend watching Best Leftovers Ever! on Netflix as well as a random movie with Ryan Reynolds and Dwayne Johnson called Red Notice (dumb but entertaining).  Found a gardening show on Discovery Plus so watched a bit of it plus a few episodes of Chopped (the Netflix show mentioned is only 8 episodes). Need to finish up Ted Lasso and of course, I’ll watch the latest Better Call Saul episode tomorrow.

On My Menu

Not sure if it was watching a few cooking shows or the weather change but I did feel slightly inspired at the store this morning. Nothing overly exciting but I did have ideas of what I wanted to make.

MONDAY: Grilled ham steak with smoked honey, corn on the cob, asparagus, and honey butter crescent rolls

TUESDAY: Hawaiian pulled pork sliders, coleslaw *J has an appt at 3*

WEDNESDAY: Taco salads

THURSDAY: Pepper steak, rice *J has band practice 6:30-8:45*

FRIDAY: Chicken sausage, broccoli, and orzo pasta skillet

**I might change today’s menu to minestrone since my husband came home and ate a ham sandwich for lunch plus I do have some veggies I need to use. Or maybe I’ll make that for our lunch.

Looking Around The House

The kitchen is the worst. Everywhere else just needs a bit of straightening and quick cleaning.

On My To Do List

  1. Return overdue library books
  2. Grocery store DONE
  3. Finish up the laundry (did most of it over the weekend)
  4. Figure out a “finger food” to take to a birthday party this weekend
  5. Figure out what fall veggies we’re going to plant in empty raised bed (onions did not do so well)

From The Camera

 

Quote For The Week

Happy are they who take life day by day, complain very little, and are thankful for the little things in life. (Unknown)

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Happy Homemaker Monday, Another Hot Week

HappyHomemakerMonday 7 Comments

After some lovely rain last week, we’re back to HOT this week. The rain was a nice reprieve. And one less worry before our trip as I didn’t need to try to explain all the watering (this plant needs every day, this one every other day, etc.) to my older son.

We left Thursday for Saint Louis (where just a day or two before they had a record 11 inches of rain in one day! Thankfully, the flooding had receded by Thursday).  J played in the Mid America Music Festival, two solos plus a couple of pieces with the band. We’ll hear how the judges scored it all on Tuesday evening at a recital held with the students of his instructor. I’m a bit late posting today because I agreed to work (why?!) this morning from 7a.m. to 12:45 (had to pick up my kid from band camp).

Time to see what’s on the agenda for this new week. Joining in with Sandra over at Diary Of A Stay At Home Mom.

The Weather 

HOT. Heat advisory until 8 p.m. tomorrow night, wonder if they’ll extend it. Still in the low 90’s for the rest of the week. There are a few chances of storms Wednesday and Thursday. It’s also currently quite HUMID out there as well.

As I Look Outside My Window 

I see nothing but the hot, humid haze. Here’s a better view, what we saw from our hotel room in St. Louis where the weather was incredible for our time there. 

Thinking And Pondering

My work’s been on my mind a bit. So many changes lately. I go back and forth between thinking I’d like to be there on a regular basis with a consistent schedule and wanting to just call it quits. None of my concerns relate to the kids. I was happy to work this morning and see all of them even if everyone was grumpy (myself included, just a Monday type of Monday).

How I Am Feeling

Headache from too much salt water taffy (a food related one to cross off the summer bucket list I never created!) and tired.

On The Breakfast Plate

Back from our trip so a return to boring flip yogurts and coffee.

On The Lunch Plate

Black beans and rice at preschool, too much salt water taffy at home.

On The Dinner Plate

I didn’t go to the store yet, let G take my car to his work (I have better a/c), and it’s way too hot to cook. Probably taco meat already cooked in the freezer made into crunchy tacos or burritos. UPDATE: J had mozzarella sticks and chopped peppers, husband had peanut butter crackers, and I had a Balanced Break plus another flip yogurt. G just got back from work and apparently stopped at Panda Express on the way home because he just delivered me 2 spring rolls (my favorite from there).

What I’m Wearing Today

For work I wore light cotton pants with a “groovy” multi colored design and a green t-shirt with the preschool name on it. Now, I’m wearing a light blue marching band shirt from one of G’s years and a tan linen shorts.

On My Reading Pile

I’m currently reading Confetti at the Hummingbird Hotel by Daisy James. Her books are always light and uplifting so a nice change after reading The Hunting Party by Lucy Foley and We Were Never Here by Andrea Bartz while on the way/in St Louis. Both were rather murderous accounts set during vacations so not perhaps the best choice to read during a trip.

On My TV

Still watching Ted Lasso and Doctor Who. Plus there’ll be a new Better Call Saul episode tomorrow. I did take a minute and finally watch the movie CODA one day last week. It definitely deserved all the awards. Such a good movie.

On My Menu

Absolutely no idea. The taco meat idea got a face so none of us had that tonight.

MONDAY: Everyone on own *J had band practice 6:30-1* *I worked 7-12:45*

TUESDAY: ??? *J has band practice 6:30-1* *I have a 9:30 hair appt* *J’s recital at 6:30* Might be an OUT kind of night

WEDNESDAY: Perhaps pork chops, potatoes, salad *J has band practice 6:30-1*

THURSDAY: Chicken??? Maybe I’ll throw it in the crock pot *J has band practice 6:30-1*

FRIDAY: Pizza on the grill??? *J has band practice 6:30-1*

Looking Around The House

It’s on my list for tomorrow as it’s borderline disgusting currently.

On My To Do List 

  1. Go to the store (I skipped it today as I was too tired. Have to cram it in to tomorrow)
  2. Send some documents to J’s school, proof of immunizations, etc. (Wed slated for paperwork)
  3. Laundry is DONE, just not folded
  4. Water garden, harvest a few vegetables: black eyed peas, I have eggplant!, might have beans, tomatoes aren’t ready yet
  5. Clean out upstairs freezer

From The Camera

Pictures from Saint Louis are in my post this week. (I might do a proper post about our trip with a few more pictures but no promises)

Quote For The Week 

 Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and he will establish your plans. (Proverbs 16:3)

Happy Homemaker Tuesday, A Second Rainy Day!

HappyHomemakerMonday 8 Comments

After a week of nothing but working and watering the garden (last week wiped me out), it’s been raining on and off since the super early (middle of the night Sunday) yesterday morning. We needed it so bad. And if you are still somewhere with the crazy heat wave, I hope some rain and cooler temperatures find you soon.

At some point, I’m hoping to get back into a better blogging routine. For now, I’m just happy today for a few minutes to join in with Sandra over at Diary Of A Stay At Home Mom for the Happy Homemaker Monday link up. And of course, catch up with all of you!

The Weather

Not to brag but did I mention it rained yesterday? And today! And maybe even tomorrow. Yesterday’s high was mid 70’s. It’s still cool and comfortable today. As much as I love my summer weather, even I was getting a bit sick of highs in the upper 90’s and 100 with higher heat index values.

As I Look Outside My Window

I’m in the basement so I can’t see anything through the window as it has the privacy film on it. However, I’m glad the flying ant thing on the inside of it seems to have found somewhere else to go as it was making me rather nervous.

Right Now I Am

Spending some time on this post instead of going to Target like I need to be doing (no, I really do need things there today).

Thinking And Pondering

If I watch the news I feel kind of down about here and everywhere and everything. Yet, when I went to the store yesterday in the beautiful rain, I overheard a woman offering to bring up the car for a stranger (I know I wanted to be suspicious as well but could just tell it was nothing but a kindness offered to an older woman who clearly had walking difficulties). One of my favorite door/parking lot people (not sure his exact job title) told me a funny joke as I left (I don’t offend easy so apologies if this offends anyone: What does congress think Roe v Wade actually is? Two ways to cross the Rio Grand. HA!)

How I Am Feeling

She’s been on a terror waking us up to go outside in the middle of the night lately. She looks as sleepy here as I’ve felt lately.

 

Much better than yesterday. I didn’t sleep well Sunday night and slept on my wrist so it hurt all day yesterday. Amazing what a decent night of sleep does for the mind and the body.

On The Breakfast Plate

I made waffles and bacon this morning so J could have a decent breakfast prior to band music camp. Plus, I had coffee.

On The Lunch Plate

Spaghetti. It’s what we had for dinner last night.

On The Dinner Plate

Some form of tacos. Maybe taco salads.

What I’m Wearing Today

Orange Ponca City, Oklahoma t-shirt, jean shorts, and my leopard print slip on shoes.

On My Reading Pile

After Carrie from Northwoods Scrapbook mentioned the Enchanted Mystrery garden books by Bailey Cattrell, I knew I needed to read those. Requested them from the library and absolutely loved them. Really wish there were more than 3 books in the series. Last night I finished up Rock, Paper, Scissors by Alice Feeney. A pretty creepy novel that would be good for Halloween time, I think.

On My TV

Doctor Who, still have one season left of the Peter Capaldi doctor, I think. Over the weekend, I binge-watched a series called Dark Winds on AMC+ that was pretty good, just 6 episodes so perfect to watch on a day when it was too hot to do much else.

Started watching Ted Lasso on Apple Tv. Always skeptical of the overly hyped shows but this one is hilarious. And, Better Call Saul started back so watching that as well.

On My Menu This Week

The heat wave had me craving fall comfort foods (or maybe just the weather for them?) but with absolutely no desire to cook at all. This week is staying pretty basic as we’re going on a short trip starting Thursday. G has to work so will stay here holding down the fort.

MONDAY: We had spaghetti *J has music/band camp 8-4* *J had a baritone lesson at 6:30*

TUESDAY: Tacos *J has music/band camp 8-4* *J has an appt for a physical, new band requirement, at 5*

WEDNESDAY: Roast in the crock pot *J has music/band camp 8-4* *I have work training 1-2:45*

THURSDAY: Out of Town

FRIDAY: Out of Town

Looking Around The House

I’ve let go of the dream of leaving a spotless house when we leave on Thursday. I’ll focus on the house next week.

On My To Do List

  1. Go to Target. Need to get a card/gift for a retiring teacher
  2. Fill the car with gas, was hoping to wait until we left for our trip but the little illuminated gas pump says I better go ahead and do it today
  3. Make a loose itinerary for our trip
  4. Pay bills
  5. Other stuff that I’ll think of later

From The Camera

(all pictures probably from last week or the week before)

Quote For The Week

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. (Philippians 4:6)

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Happy Homemaker Monday, Mid-Summer Already?

HappyHomemakerMonday 8 Comments

How is it already the second week of July? Didn’t summer just begin? Got to make sure to really savor the second half.

Didn’t do much better at keeping up with my blog last week. Truth is, this time of year, my head and my heart are out in the garden or with the flowers in nearly every single free moment. Or I’m reading about it. Or escaping into a summer read.

However, I’m determined to stay on course with these Monday planning posts. So, I’m as always joining linking to Sandra’s Happy Homemaker Mondays over at Diary Of A Stay At Home Mom.

The Weather

Same old summertime story. Hot. Not heat advisory hot (that was last week) but still mostly hotter than average. Currently 91 and sunny. Tomorrow is supposed to be “normal” with a high in the mid 80’s but then back to the 90’s for the rest of the week. No chances of rain until Saturday.

As I Look Outside My Window

I see birds out the back door, hopefully not angry birds though I do need to fill the feeders. Blue skies, flowers mostly blooming or about to bloom.

Right Now

Putting up this post before I do a few other “have-to” computer items.

Thinking And Pondering

Weekend ended (or week started?) on a wonderful note. Last night, I went to over to visit some family I’d not seen since 2019! It was so nice to see them all again (One brother from Texas was visiting another brother). Between politics and the pandemic, we’d fallen out of getting together. So nice to get together with family again. Hopefully, we’ll all get to go see my brother/the kids’ aunt and uncle before they head home. Politics and ideas about the pandemic are stupid reasons to miss out on seeing family (my belated opinion on matters).

Homemaking Tips

Not much to share but speaking from sad experience, make sure the freezer door is shut if you have an extra one. I apparently didn’t get our deep freezer door shut on the Fourth of July. We lost quite a lot of food, had to cook a fair amount that was thawed as well. SIGH. On a grateful note, it could’ve been so much worse and while annoying and frustrating, it was mostly heat and eat “crap” we lost so I can easily replace it a few items at a time.

How I Am Feeling This Morning

Trying not to feel guilty for saying no to work not once, not twice, but three times this morning! I do have things I *have* to do because I work non-stop from Wednesday on until the 25th. And I need to schedule things. Plus, a bit concerned because 2 of the teachers calling were in the classroom I’m supposed to be in this week. Don’t want to be sick!

On The Breakfast Plate

Not oatmeal. Not yogurt. Today was a Starbuck’s cheese Danish and caramel macchiato (cold brew). Last of my Mother’s Day gift card.

On My Reading Pile

A pretty intriguing Lisa Gardner book entitled One Step Too Far. A “real” book from the library as opposed to an e-book.

On My TV

Not a whole lot. Bit of Dr. Who still. I did break down and rent Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom so I could say I’ve see all the Jurassic Park movies before seeing the final one. It was better than I expected.

On The Menu

I went grocery shopping this morning and I still don’t know…hoping we’ll have another family catch up night one day this week.

MONDAY: Depends on whether J wants to eat before or after his lesson *J has a lesson at 6:30*

TUESDAY: Spinach chicken skillet

WEDNESDAY: Husband’s choice *I work 9-5* *Mom’s club reunion dinner at local Italian restaurant*

THURSDAY: Pork chops, crunchy coleslaw *I work 7-1:30*

FRIDAY: Homemade pizza (might try cooking it on the grill?) *I work 7-1:30*

From The Camera

Looking Around The House

UGH. I did clean it one day last week (Thursday, I think?) but you can’t tell now.

On My To Do List

Fun Stuff:

  1. Make sun tea
  2. Figure out a time to go see my dinosaur movie (probably this weekend)
  3. Research upcoming trip a bit more
  4. Take care of garden/flowers around yard. Plan out a new shade garden area in backyard.

Have To Do’s:

  1. Grocery store *DONE*
  2. Laundry *In progress*
  3. Make J appt for an immunization he needs for school
  4. Cat vet appt (I had this on here before and procrastinated/then forgot)
  5. Pay bills

On My Prayer List

Friends. Family. Strangers. My neighbor and her son. The world. Prayers of gratitude for our freezer food loss not being as serious as it could’ve been. For reconnecting with family. For my husband’s ability to pick out a good watermelon.

Quote For The Week

Gardening is a medicine that does not need a prescription and has no limit on dosage.  (unknown)

 

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