Suzanne McGrath Photography

Six on Sunday

Hello!  I hope you had a great week.  I am not sure this will be the newsiest post you've ever read, but here goes nothing...

 

1.  I finished a book this week!  (I think I had three going at the same time.)  It was a really, really easy read - For the Love:  Fighting for Grace in a World of Impossible Standards by Jen Hatmaker.  She is a little bit religious for my taste but there were some good take-aways.  And I love her style - she is has the absolute best sense of humor.  I especially loved her chapter on traveling for mission trips and the line "Anytime the rich and poor combine, we should listen to whoever has the least power."  However, I felt the book lacked a bit of discussion on sensitive topics I hoped she would cover.  Would I buy it again?  Probably - but in soft cover and on sale.

2.  I have still going strong on watching The Americans.  I'm on season 3 and it seems to be getting a bit more unbelievable.  Like, how many different people can they really pretend to be and get away with it?  Also, they are blending apartheid in South America with Russia and the U.S. getting involved in Afghanistan and it's a little hard to follow all the various plot lines.  But whatever.  It's entertaining and I'll totally watch until the end of Season 3 and then anxiously await for Season 4!

3.  I did quite a bit more painting last week.  I finished my nightstands and they are back in my room.  I need to take real pictures but couldn't get it done last week.  I also painted the Little's bathroom a blush pink.  I'm actually not sure what I'm going to focus on tomorrow!  I better get something figured out.

4.  Do you want to know what our menu is this week?  Well, here it is anyway:

Sunday:  Chili + Cornbread + Caesar salad

Monday: Quinoa burgers (substitute black beans for mushrooms) + roasted sweet potatoes + fruit

Tuesday: Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Vinaigrette + fruit

Wednesday: Chicken and rice soup + roasted green beans + fruit

Thursday: Steak and broccoli stir fry

Friday: Homemade pizzas + salad + fruit

Saturday:  Pierogis (from Costco) + Roasted broccoli + fruit

 

5.  I've been talking to quite a few people lately who are struggling with what to do for lunch.  I know I've posted these recipes before but I'm linking to them again.  I am still a huge fan of soup for lunch!  It's so easy to make a bit batch on Sunday and then heat it up all week.  Plus, I just throw other leftover meat into the soups to make them more hearty.  Easy peasy.

Silky Gingered Zucchini soup and Golden Cauliflower soups are my favorites. 

 

6.  I road-tripped up to South Dakota this past weekend with my mom and her special friend.  Her brother, Jim, died and his funeral was on Saturday.  I know what you are thinking.  Sad.  But you know what?  His funeral was not sad.  I mean, it was a little bit sad because I know what his five kids and all his grandkids were going through, but it was really a celebration of his amazing life.  My cousin, Vicki, talked about her dad and she did an AMAZING job.  Her speech was the perfect balance of humor and poignancy.  I loved it.  She painted such a vivid picture of her dad and what a character he was and how much he really lived his life.  It was awesome.  

I really had a lovely weekend.  A bunch of us met for dinner on Friday night and laughed and laughed.  I went for a 7 mile run with two of my cousins, Tina and Mandy, and their friend on Saturday morning.  (For all you runners - it hovered around 32* windchill but was fantastic!)  I love going for long runs because it is time to just talk and talk.  So fun!  Saturday morning we had the visitation and funeral.  That afternoon we all headed over to the little bar in town to have a drink (or twenty - free keg) on Jim.  It was like a Dubbelde family reunion and I had SO MUCH FUN.  I got to talk to cousins I hadn't talked with in years.  I laughed so much my cheeks hurt.  My family is seriously crazy.  The best and most fun kind of crazy.  I love them to pieces!  That evening a bunch of us headed to the next town for dinner and more drinks.  And more laughter.  I stayed with my cousin, Tina, and her family and felt so at home.  It was just lovely.

Seriously, I was so glad I was able to make the trip up there.  I really wanted to show support for my aunt Kathie and my cousin Vicki and their whole family.  I know how hard it can be to get through that day and it was nice to be there.  

I will leave you with this picture of my cousin, Scott.  There is a bit of a rivalry between the Minnesotans and those from Wisconsin.  (Are they Wisconsinites?)  You know - the Vikings vs the Packers.  I have to say, Scott won this round against my uncle Bob:

I'm only sorry I wasn't there to see Bob's reaction when he got his koozie back! 

'Till next June all you Dubbelde family - can't wait to see you in Arkansas!

Have a fabulous week, everyone!  I will be back on Thursday for an update on my One Room Challenge Room!

Six on Sunday

Can you believe this is the last Sunday in September?! Holy cow - where did the month go??? 

Anyway, let's get the show on the road, shall we?

1.  I painted the backs of my kitchen cabinets a couple weeks ago but finally took proper photos this past week.  Here is the Before:

 

And here is the After:

 

And here is another section of cabinets with glass doors.  I was getting a terrible reflection from the windows behind me which is why I opened the doors:

I know the difference is subtle, but I'm so pleased.  I love how the white dishes and milk glass really pops off the dark, charcoal gray.  Seriously, for $3 and some change, I'm wondering why I waited so long!

 

2.  I've been on a roll with paint lately.  Nothing is sacred!  This past week I decided to paint all the doors upstairs.  That's SIX DOORS!  And I did it in 3 days.  WooHoo!  It's virtually impossible to get a good picture and I for sure can't get all six doors in one picture, but this will give you an idea.  

Before:

 

After:

I'm in love with the look.  It just adds such a great punch - all for a few hours of work.  I had the paint laying around in my stash (which is pretty big!) and I figured, why not?!  So happy.

Also - let's talk about that mirror.  It was hanging up in my room but I had to take it down when I installed the barn doors.  We seriously have NO ROOM for it in our master bedroom, so I am seriously considering putting it out in the hall.  That way we will all have access to it and it has enough room in front of it where we can use it to get a full view of our outfits.  Thoughts?  Are you down with it or no?  I'm thinking it might actually balance that wall a little bit?  

 

3.  In the last two weeks - while working on my numerous paint projects - I've worked my way through a full season and a half of New Girl, and the whole first season of Stranger Things.  I don't generally watch a lot of TV but I've fallen in love with Netflix!  It makes the time just fly by.  Any recommendations for new series?  My sister says I should watch The American on Amazon Prime but other than that, I don't know what else to watch!

And I am thinking of sanding and priming the walls in the Little's bathroom (they are currently green stripes) and scraping the ceiling so I will be needing a new series to watch!  And if I don't do that, I'm going to paint the nightstands in the master bedroom.  Who knows - maybe I'll get to both!  That's a lot of opportunity for some serious Netflixing!  

 

4.  The three little girls all had Friday afternoon off school.  #2 went shopping with friends.  And #3 and #4 had their friend, Ellie, over to play.  We took advantage of the beautiful day and walked up to Sonic for slushees during Happy Hour.  I love doing little things like this - they think it's awesome and for less than $4, they think I am also a "cool" mom.  Win-win!

 

5.  I am 90% done decorating for Halloween.  I still need some white pumpkins which the grocery store did not have.  (They only had "special" pumpkins.)  Ugh.  That means a separate trip to Home Depot.  But, I took pictures and have one preview ready:

The kids - especially the Littles - LOVE the decorations so it's all worth it.

 

6.  Today was 60* and rainy.  Add to that - both the Middles had soccer games this morning.  That gave me a hankering for a Pumpkin Spice Latte.  Since Starbucks uses some questionable ingredients, I decided to try my hand at making my own.  (Also - I was way too lazy to leave the house!)  Let me tell you - "S - U - C - C- E - S - S.  clap-clap  That's the way we spell Success."   (Name that movie!)  

It was so good!  Seriously, if you love anything pumpkin, try this recipe!  (Hint:  It just uses strong coffee.)

If you are too lazy to click the link - just warm up 2 cups milk, 2 Tbls pumpkin puree, 1 Tbls honey.  When it's heated up, add 1/2 cup or more strong coffee, 1 Tbls vanilla, and 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice.  Top with whipped cream.  I was in heaven.  

 

Wow - Those six things just flew by tonight!  That's all I've got for you.  Have a fabulous week! 

 

 

 

 

Six on Sunday

We did it!  We survived the first days of school and lived to tell about it.  Phew.  Here goes...

The first day of school was on Thursday.  Much too early but I talked about that last week.  Anyway, it went as smoothly as could be hoped.  Here are the girls in the order they left the house:

#2 headed to 8th grade - her last year of Middle School.  (Yep - I already attended the obligatory Parental Back to School night.  One down and two more to go.)

 

#1 headed off to her sophomore year of high school  Now that she drives herself she leaves as late as possible.  Go figure!

She is a mentor for freshman students which is why she was wearing that T-shirt.  It sounds like quite a bit of work but yet really, really fun!

 

The littles are in 2nd and 4th grade this year.  So crazy how time has flown by for all of these girls!

#3 got Mr. Holmes.  At first she was very put-out by a male teacher but he's sufficiently cool so all is well.  And #4 got Mrs. Shineman whom we all adore.  She had the big girls and only missed having #3 in her classroom so we are thrilled.  And of course #4 is thrilled because her BFF is in her class, too.  This makes the third year in a row for the Besties.  BONUS!

Of course #1 had a BOATLOAD of homework this weekend, but that's what she gets for taking an AP European history class.  (Really - it sounds like an awesome class and I'm really happy she is taking it.  But it will certainly give her a run for her money this year!)

 

2.  Our little doggy is growing up!  Sir Winston is just over six pounds and in DESPERATE need of a haircut.  I need to call tomorrow!!

We've actually caught Winston and Darby, the stone cold killer cat, playing a few times recently.  It's actually pretty adorable and just makes me love Darby even more!

 

3.  I kept myself quite busy last Thursday and Friday even though the kids were in school.  I finished all our ironing and even hemmed (by hemmed I mean I ironed with seam tape) the PJ pants the little girls and I made the week prior.  (They desperately wanted to learn to sew and all I could think of to make - that they would actually wear - were PJ pants.  I caught up on all my gross paperwork.  I moved iTunes from my old Mac to my new Mac so I could move the old computer to the Little's room.  While moving the computer to their room I ran myself down a rabbit hole and ended up tearing off their old cork board/white boards and remaking them with wood frames.  I primed and painted the dresser that is replacing the secretary from the master bedroom that moved to the Little's room.  So yeah, it's all good.  

 

4.  I've had two photo sessions in the last two weeks:  a senior session and a maternity session.  I'm going to be editing those photos in the next day or two so hopefully I'll get a sneak peak going.  I'm thinking about offering to Family Sessions again this fall!  

 

5.  We had a really fun weekend!  Yesterday we hung out at the pool all afternoon with our friends and neighbors.  We enjoyed dinner al fresco, and then had an impromptu neighborhood cul-de-sac party.  We stayed up too late drinking beers and chatting but I loved it!

Today I was able to squeeze in an 8 mile run with Carmen.  It was beautiful but a little humid.  And by a little I mean a lot.  Like 91%.  

Then #2 had a soccer game.  Her team won 5 to 1 and it was a really fun game to watch!  Which is good it was fun to watch because the games are now 40 minute halves which means we left the house a little after 10am and didn't get home until almost 1pm!

We headed to the pool for a smudge before #4 had her piano lesson this afternoon.  I managed to get a little painting in as well.  So all in all, a great weekend!

 

6.  Want to know my menu for the week?  Well, here you go!

Sunday:  Strawberry salad with a baguette.  (Strawberries, walnuts, goat cheese, cucumbers, croutons, and chicken with homemade dressing.  Dressing = 1/4 cup Poppyseed dressing + 2 Tbls balsamic vinegar.  Relish.)

Monday: Shrimp Piccata with Zoodles (chicken breasts for kids) + roasted asparagus + fruit

Tuesday: Egg and Chorizo avocado toast + roasted green beans + fruit 

Wednesday: Grilled Asian chicken with snap pea slaw

Thursday: Lentil tacos + fruit

Friday: The best pasta salad (I add mozzarella balls and omit the Salad seasoning) + roasted broccoli  + baguette

 

Well, there you go.  I hope you have a great week - especially those of who just starting school! 

 

Make-up Monday

Wow!  It feels like ages since I've updated my blog and yet it's only been 8 days.  Crazy!  Let's get right to it, shall we?

1.  The hubby and I got back from Cancun last night at 11pm.  That's the reason I didn't blog last night.  After 9 hours of travel, I was EXHAUSTED!  

Anyway, the hubby's company is a small, privately held firm and they wanted to celebrate their 20 year anniversary.  They flew the ENTIRE team (about 30 people) plus their significant others to Mexico for two nights.  Most people, like us, tacked on a day or two on either side of the weekend.  We stayed at the Hotel Riu Palace Peninsula, an all-inclusive resort and it was fabulous.  The hubby and I have never done an all-inclusive trip before and it totally lived up to all the hype.  The only money we spent our entire trip was for tipping, a couple bus rides, and 4 chocolate bars for the girls.  That's it!  

And you might be thinking, but you had to hang out with work people the whole time?!  I swear, nobody he works with reads my blog so I am being completely honest, everyone I met was awesome.  We had SO MUCH FUN hanging out with the whole crew!  Seriously, they were all really nice, down-to-earth, talkative, and just plain fun to be around.  I'm sure it helps that the hubby and I are both extraverts and we love being around other couples but we only like to be around FUN people and we had it in spades this weekend.  Anyway, enough rambling, I took a few pictures...

This is the view from our balcony - we were on the 6th floor:

I don't even know how many pools there were - too many to count.  And the beach was also beautiful.  Of course we swam in the ocean a few times.  But sadly, we were not able to surf because the waves were too small.  Major bummer.

 

I got up early one day so I could photograph the sunrise.  It was stunning:

 

And here is a view at dusk:

 

We had a blast eating and drinking our way through the resort.  But honestly, the buffet my was favorite.  They had sushi one night and I think I ate my weight in raw fish.  It was SO GOOD.  And now that we are home we are trying to "dry out".  The drinks were fabulous but my liver needs a break now!  I should have taken pictures of the pretty drinks and great eats - but I was too busy stuffing my face.

Lastly, I need to give a big shout-out to my mom!  She stayed with the girls while we were gone and managed their crazy, chaotic schedule.  Not only did she simply manage it all, she did GREAT!  She took the kids to Orange Leaf, shopping, out for a movie, to church, and out for dinner.  Not to mention a volleyball match, guitar lessons, and two soccer games.  Thanks, mom, we couldn't have done it without you.  

 

2.  Last time I blogged I forgot to tell you about #1's exciting opportunity.  She is going to Spain with a big group of kids from her high school!  How cool is that?  They are not going until June of 2017 but that's good because it will give us all time to save some money.  We told her that she needs to have a stake in this trip so she has to come up with a thousand dollars on her own!  So of course now she is thinking about how she can earn that money, but her swim schedule makes it difficult to get a regular summer job.  I'm hoping she can become a ref for soccer and make a lot of money next fall.  But truly, she needs to figure it out on her own and I'm confident she'll do it!

 

3.  Speaking of #1, she got her cast off today!

Her wrist looks great but the doctor said it might be sore for a bit as she starts to use it because the muscle is out of shape.  She has a swim meet on Wednesday so I'm curious to see how it goes for her.  I'm hoping for the best but not expecting it.  We shall see...

 

4.  While we were in Mexico, we missed #3's music program at school.  I was seriously bummed because the music teacher at SRE is second to none!  I had several people text me pictures and my mom sent a short video.  It looked like so much fun!  Here is #3 playing the ekuele.  (I blurred out a couple kids because I don't know them.)

 

5.  Last Wednesday I made a fun Greek Marinated Steak platter.  It was not only delicious but really fun to eat.  It was sort of like a tapas meal:

 

6.  I've had my Mac since #3 was a baby.  She's 9.  I can safely say it is time for a new computer.  As soon as my tax return money hits my bank account, I'll be at the Apple store buying a new iMac!  Seriously, have you ever heard of a computer that has lasted for 9 years?  Yeah, me neither.

 
7.  Last week I told you how I had Runner's Knee.  Well, I don't really have much of an update.  It no longer hurts to go down stairs so that is definitely a plus.  But I haven't tried running yet and truth be told, I'm nervous.  I think I'll try it out tomorrow afternoon (if it's not raining) and hope for the best!

 

8.  So last week was a short week at home and the kids were off school Monday, but I still managed to accomplish a few things:

• Removed, painted, and re-installed our handrail to the basement.  (Involved a new gallon of paint and two trips to Home Depot.  This was not for the faint of heart!)
• 
• Not only did I paint the handrail, I replaced the wood pieces the brackets are screwed into.  Now they are pretty and slightly modern.  Much better.
• Bought a new mattress at Ikea.
• Sold the cane chairs in my family room.
• While the kids were off school we went to a movie.  
• Took #1's necklace to get fixed.
• Returned some clothes to Von Maur.
• Went to a nice, long lunch with a friend.
• Took headshots for that same friend.
• Packed for Cancun!

 

Phew!  You got two extras tonight since I felt guilty for not posting last night.  Bonus for you!  Have a great week and let me know if you try that Greek Marinated Steak platter.  Because you totally should!  

 
 

Six on Sunday

Hello!  It was a fairly quiet week here so this I don't expect this to be a very juicy list tonight.  Just warning you!

1.  I spent HOURS in the kitchen the past two days.  Seriously, hours.  But it was all good.  I only wish I had actually photographed some of the food.  Oops!  

Yesterday #4 and I started out by making homemade chocolate cupcakes because she had been begging to make them.  They were delicious! (Yes, I totally had one despite Whole 30 because I spent all that time making them!)  Rather than frosting them with frosting we just made homemade whipped cream for the tops.  I have this whipped cream dispenser that we all love.  It basically comes out like Reddi Whip but I control the ingredients.  (2 tsp syrup with 1 cup heavy whipping cream)  Plus, the whipped cream will stay good for days at a time.  Perfect for hot chocolate weather!

What else did I make?  

• A double batch of pumpkin spelt muffins.  I froze half for later.  
• A batch of cheese sticks frozen for Superbowl Sunday.  (They were good - we tested 3 of them last night.)
• A pan of lazagna which I froze to take with us on spring break.  
• A batch of chicken fingers for whenever the girls don't like what I'm making for dinner.  (I don't fry them - too hard.  I just bake at 400* for about 12 minutes.)  
• I tried a new recipe for breakfast bowls.  I taste tested the potatoes and they were awesome.  Can't wait to assemble and eat tomorrow morning!  
• I also made a soup for lunch this week since I doubt we'll have enough leftovers to get us through.  I still love this gingered zucchini soup - very good especially with random leftover meat thrown in.
• Lunch for the girls for tomorrow.  This one is a hit with all four (only two in the picture):

 

They are pizza roll-ups.  I just spread pizza sauce on a whole wheat tortilla and top with pepperonis and mozzarella.  They are super easy and it's great because I can make all four at once!

Of course I also made dinner last night and tonight so it felt like I spent the weekend in the kitchen.  But I didn't mind because I didn't have a ton of other activities and I can't just sit still.

 

2.  Last night we had steak salad and look who was ready to eat before anyone else in the family!

 

3.  I won't be here next Sunday because I leave on my girls trip this Thursday and won't get home until Sunday night.  We're headed to Nashville this year and I can't wait!  I've never been to Nashville and we haven't all six been together since we went to Ft. Lauderdale two years ago!  Any great suggestions?  

4.  The weather was beautiful this weekend.  The Littles spent a ton of time outside.  They rode their scooters, played in their fort, and jumped on the trampoline for hours.  I loved watching them have so much fun!

 

5.  If you read my 2016 Household Goals, you know I was looking for a rug for our music room.  Well, found one!  And it was only $25.  I think that is pretty much unbeatable.  Here it is:

 

6.  I'm not posting a thorough weekly menu tonight because tomorrow is our LAST DAY OF WHOLE 30!!!!  Yes, we are so very excited.  Tuesday's dinner can't come soon enough.  

So, how did it go?  For the most part we stuck to it.  We snuck in a drink at a wedding a few weeks ago.  And last Thursday night I enjoyed a celebratory glass (or two) of red wine.  The celebration may have bled into Friday night but other than the wine, I stuck with the diet.  (Except for the celebratory Thursday lunch.)  So did the hubby.  We were never hungry and we each canned a few LBs.  But more than ever, it was a good re-set for the beginning of the year.  We both needed to get back into a healthy routine and I think we are there now.  

So, what are we eating for dinner?  Here you go:

Sunday:  Third week in a row for beef stew.  What can I say, I just love it!  

Monday:  Baked salmon cakes + broccoli + fruit

Tuesday:  Pizza and beer and/or wine + sparkling juice for the girls + caesar salads

Wednesday:  Tacos + fruit

Thursday:  Whole chicken in the crock pot + mashed potatoes + roasted green beans

Friday:  Chicken taco soup + fruit + chips, salsa, and guacamole 

I'll be gone for Thursday and Friday's dinner, but you can see we aren't going crazy.  I'll still limit carbs.  I'm going to try to make a beer stretch - so rather than two, just stick with one.  Only time will tell if it works.  I hope so, though.

Well, there you go - my six.  Have a fantastic week!

  

     

Ten on Tuesday

I keep falling behind.  Last week it was Make Up Monday and now this week it's Ten on Tuesday.  Hopefully we'll get back to our regularly scheduled programming next Sunday!  

Since I'm two days late, you get four extra this week!  Here goes...

1.  Last week was crazy busy with end of school year activities.  So I'll start out with last Monday.  The little girls had their Field Day and All-School Lunch on the playground.  I didn't make it to watch Field Day but the hubby and I were able to surprise the girls by bringing them shakes for their picnic lunch.  I definitely think they enjoyed being outside and playing fun games that morning.  

2.  We were busy with two concerts last week:  #2's choir concert and #1's orchestra concert.  While each concert was a bit longer than usual, they were both really fantastic!  The choir concert had a pops emphasis which was fun to hear because I recognized most of the songs.  I definitely tapped my foot along.  

The orchestra concert was also really good.  (It's crazy how much the 8th graders have improved in the last three years.)  I loved hearing the 8th graders play Phantom of the Opera!  And of course they ended the performance with Black Ice where all the 7th and 8th graders play on the stage in the dark with glow sticks attached to their bows.  It's so cool to watch!  Definitely a highlight for me.

3.  I'm calling this picture Last Day of School:  

If I'm being honest, it was really just #4's last day of school since the other three had a half day on Friday.  Just details, right?

Anyway, aren't they cute?  #1 is dressed up because she had 8th Grade Graduation that morning:

Their school is so big that it took a really long time just for the kids to file in and sit down.  And then it took a really long time for them to walk through and receive their diploma.  It would have been nice just to have them file in and receive their diploma AT THE SAME TIME because sitting still for extended periods is not a skill in which I am proficient.  At all.  

Regardless, it was nice for them to feel "official".  As in officially done with middle school.  They spent the rest of the day at Power Play.  The only downfall with the location was it's popularity.  There were quite a few other schools there that day which meant very long lines and no opportunity to do everything they wished.  Oh well.  They still had fun.

Here is #1 with her friends.  She's the second from the left:

 

4.  The real last day of school was Friday.  Unfortunately, the weather wasn't that great.  I think it was in the 60s and overcast.  Major bummer.

But the kids didn't let the weather stop them from having fun.  #1 had a swim birthday party to attend.  #2 had several friends over for sandwiches and swim time.  And the littles just joined in with #2 and her friends.  Here's proof the big girls actually got in the water:

Let me just say, there was NO WAY I would have gotten in that water!  I wore a sweatshirt AND a jacket down to the pool.  Brrrrrr....

5.  We went down to my mom's house for the weekend.  We were hoping to get a lot of time on the lake, but we only made it out for a day.  The weather just did not cooperate!  Saturday was the only decent day.  I set my alarm to get up and run but it was just POURING when I woke up.  Uh, no way.  I went back to bed.  

We did, however, make it to the Farmer's Market and had great luck.  The produce was awesome!

We spent the afternoon on the boat.  The water temperature was just shy of 70* so I did not actually get in.  But all the kids went tubing and #2 went wakeboarding.  Of course the hubby couldn't be outdone by one of the kids so he shredded it, too.  I stuck to driving the boat - that was more my speed.

Since rain and thunderstorms were in the forecast for Sunday AND Monday we decided to cut our AR weekend short and headed home Sunday afternoon.  We were bummed but we're planning on heading south again for Father's Day weekend.  Hopefully the weather will cooperate a little more next time!

6.  I have recently read two books I haven't talked about yet.  The first one was given to me by my mom in preparation for our trip to Paris.  It's called Paris in Love: a Memoir by Eloisa James.  It's a quirky little book about her year in Paris with her family.  The chapters revolve around specific aspects of her time in the city but are really just a bunch of short snippets - think Facebook posts - about her observations.  It was really easy reading and often humorous.  Not to mention it did a fabulous job of making me all the more excited for a week across the pond with my mom and sister!

I just wrapped up Orange is the New Black by Piper Kerman.  And yes, I realize I'm years behind the "in" crowd.  Whatevs.  It was so much better than I expected!  The way she captured her year in the Federal prison system was fascinating.  Her descriptions of the people around her absolutely painted pictures in my mind of all them and their little quirks.  I devoured this book!  And I might even watch the Netflix original of the same name.  (That's huge for me given I really only watch one 30-minute TV program these days!)  Net-net, read this book if you haven't already.

7.  Today was the first official day of summer vacation.  And it was FANTASTIC!  First, I was able to sleep in.  (I was supposed to run but, rain.)  Second, I didn't have to make anyone breakfast.  Or lunch.  Third, all the girls had a truly fun day!   #1 hung out with swim friends ALL DAY.  #2 spent the afternoon at the pool with her friends.  And the littles had a friend over for the afternoon and they played HARD.  All in all, it was a really fun day for the girls which made it really easy for me.  (Our nanny starts next week.)  I really, truly love summer as much as the kids!

8.  I took #2 to Target tonight to look for swimsuits.  She's a petite little thing.  I'm talking she wears a size 7-8 swim suit even though she is almost 12 years old.  On a whim I had her try on XS bikinis from the junior/women's section and guess what?!  They fit!  She was thrilled to be able to buy a swim suit that wasn't from the kid section.  And I was so excited I bought her TWO!  Like that seriously made our whole day.  It was so fun!

And just so you don't think my life is all roses we also picked up hamster bedding.  I came home and promptly changed out the hamster's cage.  Yes, I lead a glamorous life.

9.  We FINALLY are moving ahead on our bathroom.  The electricians came out last week and moved all the switches, wired a few things, and put it a box for our heated floor.  I'm so excited!  I painted the ceiling (again) and it looks much, much better.  (Hint:  do not paint a ceiling that has been scraped of popcorn in anything other than flat paint.  Just don't.)  I also bought wall paint and the hubby patched three holes where the old light fixtures were removed.  I'm hoping to begin working on the floor this weekend by laying down the cement backer board.  Wish us luck!

10.  Our menu.  So I know this is really late but maybe you can use it for next week?

Sunday:  The hubby made dinner so it was hamburgers (with guacamole, fried shallots, and feta cheese) and hot dogs.  Again.  Plus watermelon.  I didn't care because I didn't have to cook.  I consider that a major win in my book!

Monday:  Steak salad (steak of hot dogs for the girls), roasted asparagus (forgot to actually cook it), and risotto (I add a little chardonnay and usually skip the cream.  You can really play around with it!)  

Tuesday:  Tacos (I make my taco seasoning) or taco salad + fruit

Wednesday:  Kung Pao chicken lettuce wraps + roasted broccoli + fruit

Thursday:  Skinny Creamy Italian Chicken + salad + fruit

Friday:  Pizza + (I'm going to try making a cauliflower crust pizza for myself - wish me luck) + salad + fruit

10.  I'm enjoying a glass of Cabernet while writing tonight and it's the first glass I've had in a month and it tastes FINE!

Phew!  I'm done.  That's all I've got tonight.  Have a fabulous week.

 

 

 

Make Up Monday

I sat down to blog last night.  I uploaded and edited my pictures.  That's as far as I got.  It was late and I was tired.  Why was it so late, you ask?  Because we were busy celebrating...

1.  ...my sister's graduation from her Masters program!  WooHoo!  If putting yourself through school as a single mom does not qualify for a big celebration then I don't know what does!  

Aren't we cute?

Seriously, I don't think I could be more proud of Aimee.  It took her three years and a ton of studying and even more paper-writing (so gross - I'd rather take a test) but she totally did it.  Once she passes her boards she will be a Nurse Practitioner.  I, on the other hand, wouldn't have been able to pass biology 101.  We could not be more opposite that is part of the charm!

Her ceremony was on the UMKC campus.  Afterwards, we all headed to the Grand Street Cafe for dinner.  We had our own private room and it perfectly fit all of us:  Aimee, her two kids, her boyfriend, Jason; my mom and her special friend, Jim; and me and my family.  We all pigged out and drank "special" drinks.  (Wine/beer for the adults and Shirley Temples for the kids.)

Really, it was a very neat evening.  And I'm glad my kids got to be a part of it to know what a big deal it is to graduate.

2.  My little girls are still very into riding their bikes around the cul-de-sac.  They take purses with them if they go to the next cul-de-sac so they can be prepared.  Prepared for what? I'm not exactly sure.  I am just so happy to get them outside after school so I don't have to see them hunched over the stupid Kindle or iPad.  THIS makes me happy!

3.  Last Friday night was spent in one of my most favorite ways:  an impromptu get-together with the neighbors.  We all sat outside in our driveway, drank some beers, and watched the kids run around and play.  Even the middle/high school kids came out and entertained the littles for a bit.  I mean seriously, how awesome is it to see a freshman boy chase around my 6 and 8 year old girls?!  It's priceless.

Of course I got suckered into making popcorn.  With lots of butter and salt! 

That picture cracks me up.  The dog is scrounging for dropped popcorn and it looks like the girls were drinking a beer!

4.  Last week #2 had a chance to attend a soccer clinic put on by the Sporting team.  It was really, really cool!  She was able to join about 60 other kids and actually practice ON the Sporting field.  

They split the kids up by height (which for the most part meant age) and sent them to various stations taught by players, coaches, and staff.  I watched most of the stations and they ran through some pretty great drills.  Plus, again, the grass felt fake.  Ooh to get to play on it!

Afterwards the kids were able to get four autographs:

 

She saw Espinoza, Melia, I forgot the third, and Myers.  And they were the nicest, most genuine athletes I've ever seen.  

5.  Our bathroom reno is finally going to start moving again!  We had hired an electrician but then he injured his shoulder.  We gave him a little time but then it started to look like he wasn't going to make a quick recovery.  We got another bid and he's coming out Wednesday.  I'm so excited!  Once he finishes we can finally start the floor and everything else in Phase 2.  Thank goodness.  I'm ready to have my bathroom back.

6.  Just in case you're following along or looking for gluten-free or Paleo meals, here's our meal plan for the week:

Lunch:  cauliflower soup again because I never actually made it last week.  We scrounged and ate leftovers and that made me alternatively sad and mad.  I'm happy to report the soup has already been made and we ate it for lunch today.  Delish.

Saturday:  Hamburgers and hog dogs on the grill again (#1 and I were gone at a swim meet) with guacamole and fried shallots + fruit

Sunday:  Grand Street Cafe (highly recommend it)  And don't say you'll just have one bit of dessert because it's impossible.  Trust.

Monday:  Baked tilapia (i just rub with a little EVOO and add lemon pepper spice) + roasted asparagus + homemade mac-n-cheese and leftover homemade chicken nuggets (hint:  i bake them - frying is too hard and messy) for the kids + apples

Tuesday:  Pork Roast (we'll throw the leftovers in the soup for lunches) + mashed potatoes + roasted broccoli + fruit

Wednesday:  Chicken Nanking (a new recipe - wish me luck!) + roasted yellow squash + fruit

Thursday:  Pad Thai (I love it so much I could eat it every week.  And almost do.)

Friday:  pizza and beer night!  My favorite.

I can happily say that eating this way allows me a few indulgences (ie Friday night beer and pizza) while keeping me below my target weight.  And the good thing is I'm never hungry.  I snack on a lot of fruit and almonds during the day.  And a banana is sort of my treat.  I'd say I'm about 95% clean eating and about 5% fun.  It's not a terrible mix.  

That's all I've got tonight.  Have a great week!

 

Six on Sunday...Happy Mother's Day!

To all the moms out there - I hope you had a great day today!  I was spoiled by my family and thoroughly enjoyed my day.  And I'll get to see my mom next weekend - so I'm definitely looking forward to that, too. Let's get started, shall we?

1.  We had a super busy week last week - something about being the end of school means it feels like we have a bazillion activities every night.  And really, it's not that crazt but I am definitely ready to be done driving kids around all over the city!  That is to say I'm ready for soccer to wind down a bit.  

#2 had her last regular season soccer game on Friday night at Swope park.  Thankfully the weather held out and it was a beautiful night for soccer.  I even managed to take some posed and action shots of the girls:

I think we were missing a couple girls in that picture but I still love it.  And it so displays their personalities without even showing their faces.  Priceless.

After the game most of the team was able to make it over to Waldo Pizza.  I have to say, it was fun to make it out of our Johnson County Bubble and enjoy everyone's company over good pizza and a few beers.  The girls completely ignored us parents and had a blast sitting at their own table.  It was a fun way to end the season.  (Of course, it's not really over since we have a tournament at the end of the month.  But you get the idea.)  A great start to the weekend, for sure!

2.  So while Friday night was late, Saturday morning was equally early.  The hubby, #1, and I all volunteered at the Heritage Park Duathalon.  We left the house at ten after six IN THE AM!  Yep, that's early for a Saturday.  But we needed volunteer hours for her swim team so we sucked it up.  Thankfully it wasn't bad at all.

#1 was able to work with her swim friends while the hubby and I worked at the finish line.

All in all, it was not a bad morning.  Just an early one.

3.  Last night we had dinner with our friends - I've talked about them before.  Anyway, it was a great evening full of pizza, beer, laughter, and kids running all over!

You see my #3 on the far left side?  Her friend, Reese, is on the far right side.  Yes, they were even born in the same month but Reese is about a head taller!  (And yes, your eyes are not failing you - the poor kid has two broken ankles.  Hence, the red and blue casts.)  

Here are the littlest littles:

They are both wearing their best fake smiles.  But man, are they so adorable or what?!  And while we don't see them very often (we live about 25 minutes apart), the kids play like not a day has passed.  I love it!

You know what else is nice?  We are finally at the age where we - the parents - can sit together and hang out and actually talk for more than two sentences.  Back when we started getting together our littlest girls were just babies in the Baby Room together.  (We all met at daycare.)  Seriously, #4 was six months old.  Back then we'd stick the littles in the sink together with some plastic cups to get a few minutes of peace and quiet!  It's truly amazing how fast time flies!   

4.  So #1 is driving around the city - like out on the main roads now.  We're past the parking lots and neighborhoods.  She thinks she's a "good" driver.  I'd say she is a "proficient" driver.  It's nerve-wracking to just sit and watch.  But I know she won't get better if we don't let her practice.  So I do.  And I drink a beer when we get to our destination.  You know, if it's after 5pm.  (Thank God for beer.  And wine.)

5.  I had a fabulous Mother's Day, despite the rain.  First, I slept in until 8am.  That is practically unheard of around here and it was delightful.  The hubby made me a delicious breakfast pizza and the girls set the table with china in the dining room.  So sweet!  And the breakfast was really delicious!  The littles each had a sweet gift they gave me that they made in school.  I love those!  And the hubby gave me a pair of noise-cancelling headphones for my trip to Paris, plus a rashguard shirt and board shorts.  It was the PERFECT gift!  

After breakfast we ventured out to Home Depot and we each picked out a perennial flower for our cutting garden.  The girls also picked out a few other flowers to complete our pots.  And I was so proud of them because there was no fighting about who got to push the cart or who got what flowers.  That part was great!  Of course it started raining when we got home so we had to wait to plant the flowers.

While it rained the girls stayed home and watched Back to the Future II and the hubby and I did a bit of shopping.  He needed some new shorts and I exchanged the board shorts he picked out for me.  It was nice to spend a bit of time together - just the two of us - because that RARELY happens around here!

Luckily for us, the rain stopped and we managed to get everything planted.  And then I took advantage and went for a long run.  It was actually a really great run!

It was one of those runs where I just felt good and enjoyed the beautiful day.  Plus, I had nothing else going on so I knew I wasn't missing anything.  

For dinner we had delicious burgers with guacamole and fried shallots, corn on the cob, watermelon, and home fries.  So good!  I helped with dinner but didn't mind at all because the hubby was in the kitchen with me.  We capped off the evening with a walk around the neighborhood.  

I truly felt like it was a great day because we got to spend time together and I also got to spend a bit of time by myself.  And we all enjoyed each other's company.  So good.
 

6.  I'm putting my menu out there again for anyone who is interested or in a rut or both!

The hubby and I are having cauliflower soup for lunch this week.  I have to say, I love this soup and make it every other week because I haven't gotten sick of it yet!  Also, the hubby and I have scrambled eggs every morning (I throw in spinach, too), turkey bacon, and veggie juice for breakfast.  The girls will eat cereal, yogurt, toast, turkey bacon, homemade pancakes, etc. 

Sunday:  (I just told you up above but I like my list to be complete so I'm writing it again.  I know - I'm a little Type A.  Sue me.)  Hamburgers on the grill, guacamole (one avacado + 1 tsp garlic salt + a little kosher salt + a little lime juice), corn on the cob, home fries

Monday:  Tuna salad (homemade mac-n-cheese for the girls), roasted green beans (so good!), fruit

Tuesday:  Tacos or taco salads + fruit

Wednesday:  Pork taquitos (the hubby and I will just eat the meat wrapped in lettuce), roasted asparagus, fruit

Thursday:  whole chicken in the crockpot, "mashed potatoes", roasted brussels sprouts and broccoli, fruit

Friday:  pizza, salad

Actually, I may swap Tuesday and Thursday so we can eat the leftover chicken in our soup during the week.

There you have it!  Have a great week.  

Six on Sunday

Hello!  How was your weekend?  Ours was pretty low-key and I loved that!

1.  We were scheduled to run 9 miles this weekend as we train for Rock the Parkway.  Usually we run on Sunday mornings from KC Running Company.  First, it's free.  Second, it's really close to home.  And third, it's free!  Well, this weekend we were smart and ran on Saturday because we knew today would be too cold.  We were right.  When I got up this morning the wind chill was -5*.  As in NEGATIVE.

Yesterday the weather was great.  The run was a little fast and I had zero in the tank.  But it was so nice to get out in the sun and to have it behind me.  So glad we fit it in early.

2.  Whole 30 update.  (Remember, I was doing a Whole 27, though.)  Anyway, it's been fine.  I do miss dairy a bit and mostly pizza.  (Still.)  Altogether I'm down just about 3.5 pounds.  I wish it was 6 but I'll take it.  

Since I'm leaving for a girls trip on Thursday I started to introduce some "non-compliant" foods yesterday.  Mainly a bit of butter for cooking, milk for a latte, and red wine.  I was really worried if I waited until my girls trip my stomach would not behave and I'd feel awful.  Thankfully, I've felt just fine!  So I'm going to continue like this.  I'll eat mostly a Whole foods diet but with dairy.  And wine.  AND, this is a big and, I'm not going to snack after dinner.  I think that's one of my big downfalls.  I don't feel hungry - just snacky.  And I know I don't need to eat.  I think that will make a big difference for me!

I've decided to reward myself when I hit my goal weight (129.999999999).  And that reward is going to be a nice swimsuit.  From a store other than Target.  I know.  I aim high.

3.  The little girls had their school Valentine's parties last Wednesday since they were out of school on Thursday/Friday.  They were cute.  Here's #4 with one of her besties:

And here's #4 playing BINGO:

 

Speaking of Valentine's Day, we had a delicious family dinner on Saturday before I took the little girls with me to #3's indoor soccer game.  So romantic, I know.

The little girls helped me set the table:

The hubby bought them each 2 cupcakes from Smallcakes.  (They only ate one last night.  I'm not crazy.)  Then they each received a small gift.  The big girls each got a statement necklace and an infiniti scarf.  The littles each got a package of markers/pens and a notebook.  Of course they all had a few chocolates thrown in for good measure, too.  The hubby and I have never been big on the holiday in terms of gifts for each other.  And that's fine with me.  I just get a kick out of watching the girls's excitement.

I made a surf and turf dinner for the hubby and myself, courtesy of IowaGirlEats.  Delish!  If you like steak and scallops you should totally make this.  The bonus?  It was so easy!  And the girls got a heart-shaped pizza from Papa Murphy's because it's tradition.

4.  Today I made a breakfast pizza and it was SO GOOD!  The crust was made out of hashbrowns and it was crispy and delish.  The top was just eggs, asparagus, mushrooms, bacon, and a bit of cheese.  Make it!

5.  I'm still making the girls' lunches most days.  I'm not gonna lie, it sucks.  I get tired of thinking of things to put in there.  I've been doing a lot of thermos days lately - spaghetti, chili, mac-n-cheese, chicken nuggets, even pork taquitos!  When the hubby was gone those three weeks I got into a routine of making the lunches the night before and it's been awesome.  My mornings have been so much more smooth!  

I'm hoping I continue to be this motivated and organized.  Wish me luck!

6.  We are totally on the countdown to spring break.  I think it's 27 days now.  We are all so excited to get to stay at our timeshare this year.  I feel like a giddy school girl!  

And that's all I've got for you tonight.  Plus, I have three little girls downstairs (#3 is having a sleepover) waiting for popcorn to make their movie night complete.  Have a great week.  Stay warm!  

 
 

 

Six on Sunday

Hi there.  Are you watching the Grammies?  Did you watch the Grammies?  I've got them on in the background.  But I'm not really vested.  Anyway...

1.  You know how last week I was all pumped about Whole 30?  Well, the excitement is lessening.  I'm still doing fine but I'm just not as psyched up about it.   

I didn't lose any weight and I didn't gain any weight last week.  So there was that, too.  Eh, oh well.  Honestly, I don't feel any different at all.  Today was Day 16 so I only have 11 days to go since I'm not actually doing all 30 days.  But mostly I'm looking forward to pizza.  The alcohol part really hasn't been hard.  While I do love my beer and pizza Friday nights, if I had to choose, I think I'd pick pizza!  

Our menu for the week:

Sunday:  Deconstructed Greek Gyros (the girls got my old, normal recipe which includes Greek yogurt) + fruit

Monday:  Salmon burgers (the girls will get Ranch and buns for their burger) with "Ranch" dressing + asparagus + fruit

Tuesday:  Pork Carnitas (taquitos for the girls) + broccoli + fruit

Wednesday:  Chicken Pad Thai + (homemade mac-n-cheese for the girls) + green beans + fruit

Thursday:  Leftovers

Friday:  Taco salads (shells for the girls) + fruit 

I also made a double batch of cauliflower soup this week because we both loved it so much.  It's a fabulous lunch!  And I successfully made mayo today - it's delicious!  So proud of myself.

2.  #1 had a swim meet this weekend.  It was sort of a bummer that it was this weekend and not last weekend.  She basically missed the beautiful weather.  Oh well, what're you going to do??

Anyway, you may recall I taught myself (using Youtube) how to crochet last fall.  It's great for swim meets because it keeps me busy but I can still talk.  After crocheting a bazillion scarves last fall, I started on a striped afghan for #2.  I was running low on yarn so I stocked up on Friday afternoon!  Check out my loot:

As for #1, she did OK at the meet but not great.  For the most part, she stayed status quo but she did manage to knock off 6 seconds from her 200 back.  Unfortunately, she didn't earn any more entries into the Champs meet at the end of the month.  But that's OK.  I think she's hit the proverbial wall and I'm confident she'll break through one of these days.  I'm just so proud of her for sticking it out and continuing to train and most of all, enjoy the sport.  Actually, love the sport.

3.  I mentioned the weather here was gorgeous this weekend.  While #2 was at a pick-up soccer game, the littles and I managed to squeeze in a few minutes at the playground before #3's basketball games.  (Yes, TWO games!)

4.  The little girls have been very into playing "spa".  I find signs like these all over the house at various times:

Unfortunately, they would prefer to paint nails than give massages.  Bummer for me.

5.  Last week it started to snow here.  As in, we got a dusting.  (Not even an inch.)  Well, at the first sign of snow everything shut down for the evening.  We were left with an unexpected night with all 6 of us at home.  It was delightful!

This is what the girls did:

#2 isn't in the pictures, but I assure you she was there.  It was a nice night for all of us!  I love that my girls will all play together even though there is an 8 year age gap.  It's so darn cute.  And I am so darn lucky!

6.  If we're friends on Facebook (isn't that how you all get here?), you saw this photo today:

MY FINISHED SHOWER!!!!!!!!!

No, that is not me yelling AT you.  That is me shouting from the rooftops that I have a working shower!  Finally.  After four months.  But it's there.  And I used it.  And I loved it.

I know DIY is not for everyone, but I can honestly say there is a feeling that is so awesome when you know you did it.  Yourself.  

I'll do a separate post about it for those of you curious - the things we learned, how much we spent, would we do it again (YES).  But that will have to wait.

This weekend we also removed my vanity and we're calling a plumber tomorrow.  Once the plumber gets here and does his job, we'll be able to move onto phase 2:  the floor.  I'm excited but so thankful we have a working shower again.  It's awesome.  

And that's it!  I hope you have a great week, everyone!