Simple Woman's Daybook

For today...August 31, 2009

Outside my window...a huge canopy of shade. My, our backyard tree has grown enormously this summer. Must be from all that rain!

I am thinking...about how we can wring out the last drops of summer before Labor Day weekend. I'm thinking berry-picking!

I am thankful for...the perspective we gain every week when we take our son to Children's Hospital for treatment/therapy. While we are there, we sit near/pass by/chat with/smile at many sick children with health problems much more serious than our child's. So, while we feel frustration and fear regarding the challenges our son faces now and in the future, I do know that there are parents out there facing much bigger frustrations and fears for their own children. I always try to include these families in my daily prayers.

From the kitchen... -black bean and shredded chicken enchiladas, a mixed green salad with fresh and super yummy orange tomatoes I bought at the farmer's market yesterday (they smell so sweet and fresh--just like summer!). Plus, I've got some whole milk yogurt cooking away in the yogurt maker.

I am wearing...navy cargo pants, white sleeveless top, white socks and my "indoor" sneakers.

I am creating...a to-do list for upcoming Christmas crafts (yes, I realize it is still August. But there was a hint of autumn in the air just the other day, and it got me to thinking...)

I am going...to escape to the bookstore this week, I think. An iced mocha, a stack of magazines and books, and a comfy chair...sounds like the perfect getaway (even if it's only for an hour).

I am reading...A Child's Garden by Molly Dannenmaier. Completely and utterly enchanting and inspiring!

I am hoping...to get a handle on some of the pits of chaos reigning supreme around here and re-establish some order. I think the little stacks of clutter here and there are contributing to some negative energy vibes (not to get all new age-y on you, but what I'm trying to say is clutter makes me cranky!)

I am hearing...my daughter singing random lines from our current stack of library books. I love that rather than just speaking the words, she pretty much sings everything these days. I also hear the pleasant hum of the baby monitor while my son sleeps upstairs.

One of my favorite things...when my husband accompanies me and the children on the big grocery shopping trips we make twice per month. It's so nice having his company and he helps distract the little ones while I concentrate on my giant list!

A few thoughts for the rest of the week...other than the aforementioned clutter-banishing, I plan on a trip to the library, a visit from my sister, a trip to Children's, and later in the week I'm going to get fresh market peaches to make this special peach pie with cream cheese crust for a Labor Day party this weekend. Yum!

A picture thought I am sharing...look at this busy bee gathering nectar before summer runs out. "Stocking the pantry shelves" for winter, if you will. :)

For more Daybook links, hop on over to The Simple Woman's Daybook site.

Simple Woman's Daybook

For Today...July 27, 2009

Outside my window...two of the largest robins I have ever seen, sitting side by side in our tree. The jungle-like vines growing on the fence we share with our neighbors have sprouted some bright red flowers. There must be 100 of them scattered about!

I am thinking...about my Mom and how she's doing after having foot surgery last Friday. She's an amazing athlete and a woman who never sits still for a moment. I'm sure the 3 weeks of prescribed bed rest is going to be very tough for her.

I am thankful for...good friends and the great conversations that are generated during get-togethers (gee, could I cram more words into that sentence that begin with 'g'?)

From the kitchen...hot cocoa with mini-marshmallows (yes, even in July's heat), blueberry and strawberry smoothies for breakfast, chicken salad sandwiches for lunch, and taco potatoes with a side salad for dinner.

I am wearing...white tank top, black cargo pants, no shoes. My hair up and out of my way so I can hit the piles and stacks and full laundry baskets this morning.

I am creating...new lightweight pants for my children to protect their pale Irish skin from the harsh sun and the nasty mosquitoes gathering in our yard, thanks to the wet summer we've had.

I am going...to the library this afternoon. It's been too long since we've had new books to sift through and snuggle up with around here. The kids love to snuggle on the couch under the blankets to read with me, even in the summertime. *Ugh* Why the heat doesn't seem to bother the little ones like it does grown-ups, I'll never understand.

I am reading...still working my way through Heaven on Earth, taking some cues from the book and trying to come up with a new rhythm for our days.

I am hoping...to lessen my husband's stress level by doing some little things this week that I think he would appreciate: making some of his favorite snacks, keeping the kitchen clutter to a bare minimum, and maybe even encouraging him to go do his own thing when he gets home from work (instead of promptly handing the kids over to him so that I can have some "me time").

I am hearing...Rascal pushing Roo's doll stroller down the hall. The air conditioner just kicked on. "Unforgettable" by Nat King Cole and Natalie Cole on the radio (that song, by the way, was the Daddy/Daughter song we danced to on my wedding day. A fun memory to recall this morning!).

Around the house...it's Monday, so that means clean sheets on the beds to start the week. I also have to mix up a new batch of homemade cleaning solutions.

One of my favorite things...Lately, Roo will say to me at random moments during the day: "Mommy, do you know how much I love you? Let me tell you: I love you and love you and love you and love you and...it just keeps going on and on...and on!" Oh, how I love that child!

A few plans for the rest of the week...My sister and her son are coming over to play tomorrow. I have big plans for sewing (I always have big plans for this, but seem to always fall short of completing said plans!). Continue house-hunting, the novelty for which is wearing off fast. I just want us to find the right house for our family soon or shelve the whole idea for now and make the best of where we are currently.

A picture thought I am sharing...Mommy's Little Helper scrubbing potatoes for tonight's dinner. I love that she's at the age when her "help" really is helpful to me! I didn't have to go back and re-scrub any of those potatoes. Now if we could just fine-tune her mopping and dish-washing skills... Only kidding, of course. I need her to learn to vacuum and cook meals first. :)

Be sure to swing by Peggy's place to read more Simple Woman Daybooks or to add your own!

Simple Woman's Daybook

For Today...June 29, 2009

Outside my window...the sweet chatter of squirrels and happy tweeting of birds. Our big backyard tree is a happening place.

I am thinking...about my wonderful family. And about my friends, that are just like family. :)

I am thankful for...my husband's altered work schedule this week: he'll be home more than usual, which I love!

From the kitchen...several crock-pot recipes to try (since the heat is really making me shy away from my oven): lemon and dill salmon (fish, in the crock-pot --- who knew?), tamale/cornbread pie, and chicken wraps (PF Chang-style, the recipe says). Hopefully, we'll have some winners out of the bunch.

I am wearing...jeans, yellow floral tank top, and sandals.

I am reading...still working my way through Playful Parenting, but now I've added Heaven on Earth. I'm loving it so far. It has really struck a chord with me and the atmosphere of learning and living I'd like to implement in our home.

I am hoping...that our new-house situation, which is currently in limbo, sorts itself out this coming week. I hate when things are just up in the air, waiting to come crashing down (or not). Whether or not things go the way we hope, I just want it settled one way or the other. Patience is not one of my strengths.

I am creating...a new (again!) menu rotation for summer. I am too busy right now to keep changing it up, so to speak. I need a solid 4-week rotation to see us through the hot months.

I am praying...that God will give us the answers we are seeking, help us find the right path on which to tread.

I am hearing...Roo trying to coax Rascal through her dilapidated couch-cushion tunnel: so far, he's not falling for it!

Around the house...chaos and disorder reign supreme. Must gain control over that immediately. My mind can't take much more of this...stuff...everywhere I look.

One of my favorite things...how my son's face beams every time he sets eyes on his big sister. She can get smiles from him when no one else can!

Some plans for the rest of the week...print up pictures to include in some thank you notes I'm sending out; grocery shopping (since that didn't happen this past weekend); a visit from my Mom and my sister; a Fourth of July BBQ on Saturday; and a strict earlier bedtime for myself!

Here is a picture thought (or two, or eight!) that I am sharing...We spent a lazy Sunday at the park: having a picnic, gathering sticks, capturing ladybugs, kicking the ball around, swinging, spying mushrooms growing under the trees, admiring the gardens in front of the surrounding houses...

While Peggy from The Simple Woman is taking a much deserved break for the summer, Grandmother Wren is graciously hosting the links for the Simple Woman's Daybook Society. Please meet up there for more inspiring Daybook entries!

Simple Woman's Daybook

For Today...June 22, 2009

Outside my window...my garden looks to be thriving, surprisingly. Hmm... it seems the more I leave it alone, the better it does!

I am thinking...about how to sneak some fun into the week ahead. Most of what we have going on is pretty much boring (but important), adult stuff -- the kids will most likely be feeling lost in the shuffle of our busy lives this week. Where can we squeeze in a trip to the park or a visit from Grandma?

I am thankful for...the never-ending support we receive from our family: my parents, my sister and her family -- they have been so wonderful as we are undergoing some major changes and challenges in our lives.

From the kitchen... For this morning: cinnamon crumb coffee cake (substituting almond flour for all-purpose flour). For lunch: chicken salad. And for dinner tonight: 4-Cheese Lasagna and green beans in lemon butter sauce.

I am wearing...pajama pants and a tank top (it's still pretty early and I had to dash out of the bedroom this morning before getting dressed, as my son was crying and I didn't want him to wake his sister up).

I am creating...some new lounge pants for my children. We cleaned out my husband's closet this past weekend and I found several super-soft (read: worn a few too many times) t-shirts that would make comfy pants for the littles. Yay! That will keep me out of JoAnn's fabric store -- at least for this week! ;)

I am going...to draw up a master to-do list, so nothing slips by me this upcoming (and extremely busy) week. I need to delegate certain tasks to my husband and break my tasks down by day. When I get overwhelmed, I tend to freeze up and do nothing. If I dish out a little to be done each day, hopefully I can divide and conquer!

I am reading...Playful Parenting by Lawrence Cohen

I am hoping...that my son (who is breastfed) is NOT allergic to chocolate, as this not-having-cocoa-thing is really tough for me on these bleary-eyed mornings. I need to avoid it for another week to get a better idea of how it's affecting him.

I am hearing...the hum of the ceiling fan above my head as I type. Racal's barefeet are pitter-pattering around in the front hall.

Around the house...a plumber is coming to fix the faucet and pipe in our tub/shower. I hope it's fixable and I hope it's not going to cost a small fortune! I have an overflowing laundry basket with my name on it, so I better tackle that today.

One of my favorite things...taking my daughter to swimming lessons while my husband stays home with our son. That way I can just sit and focus on watching her instead of walking around and around with my antsy little guy! My daughter likes it too: "Just the girls," she says as we leave together for class each week.

A few plans for the rest of the week...the plumber today, a consult with a specialist at Children's for my son tomorrow, an inspection on a prospective future home on Wednesday, and even more appointments for Thursday and Friday. Somewhere in there I have to do a big grocery shopping trip and run to the library!

Here is a picture thought I am sharing...During this crazy week, I'll be trying to channel the peace I felt gazing upon this lake on vacation a few weeks back. Ahhh...I can almost feel the cool calm washing over me (repeat to self as needed) :)

Grandmother Wren is the gracious hostess for the Simple Woman's Daybook during the summer. Please hop on over to visit Grandmother Wren and read more Daybook entries.

Simple Woman's Daybook

For Today...May 4, 2009

Outside my window...our new plants in the garden are thriving after all the rain showers we've had recently. We planted some neat moss in between the flagstone pieces that encircle the base of our tree, and I can see that it's starting to spread. Yay for gardening success!

I am thinking...about balance and how to achieve it. The children, the house, my husband, myself, blogging (!), and so on. If anyone has uncovered the key to this one, please let me know! :)

I am thankful for...my husband's support regarding the raising of our children. I am constantly running ideas and plans by him and he always demonstrates such trust and confidence in me as a mother. I think he believes in me more than I believe in myself.

From the kitchen...Meatloaf (one of my husband's favorites), baked potato fries, lemon-hazelnut green beans.

I am wearing...black yoga pants (with a hole in the knee, no less. Workout or yoga pants in black take a beating around here--I must go shopping for new ones); a brushed-cotton, turquoise top that is super soft and fast becoming one of my favorites; my hair up.

I am creating...a detailed to-do list for the next two months: celebrating many birthdays in our little family circle and planning a mini-vacation we just decided on this past weekend. Oh, how I love to make lists (things to buy, to make, to borrow, to confirm, to cook, to pack, etc. etc.)!!!

I am going...to work on a special gift for my Mom for Mother's Day. I hope it turns out.

I am hoping...to watch a movie with my husband this week. It's been sooo long since we've watched anything because our littlest one wakes so frequently during the evening (well, all night long and into the morning, actually). But I think we will just try and see if we can watch an entire movie in one night. That would be such an accomplishment!

I am hearing...the cheerful babble of my nearly 11-month old boy and the thundering footsteps of my nearly 4 year old gal running around the house.

I am praying...for God's guidance regarding some big decisions we need to make affecting our family's future. So I told my husband that we should be quiet and listen, wait for Him to point us in the direction we are to go.

Around the house...laundry is in full-swing; the recycle bin is overflowing; and the sewing machine is calling my name! :)

One of my favorite things...the giddy squeals and look of sheer pleasure when my daughter finds a worm in the garden (and how she will dig out there for hours, getting just as excited about the 20th worm as she did the 1st one!)

A few plans for the rest of the week...sticking with my weekly cleaning schedule (got off track with in-town company, and never got completely back on again); some sewing and painting; order a few items for some upcoming birthdays; a library run. Perhaps an early Mother's Day treat for myself: a trip to the bookstore to sip something yummy and browse around!

A picture thought I am sharing...probably one of our favorite morning rituals (other than snuggling in bed): waiting for our breakfast guests.

Be sure to swing by Peggy's Place for more Daybook viewings...

Simple Woman's Daybook

For Today...April 20, 2009

Outside my window...birds are feasting on the unopened buds on our tree, squirrels are scavenging on the ground below the feeder, finding bits of this and that. It's quite a chattering, tweeting frenzy out there this sunny, blue-skied morning.

I am thinking...since our out-of-town family is leaving today, it's time to get back into our normal routine. While it's fun to have company (the kids loved having a constant playmate or audience, as the case often was), it's nice to get back to the familiar rhythm.

I am thankful for...my daughter's quick recovery from an illness over the weekend. She had a fever of 104, which always scares me (even though, rationally, I know it's her body working to fight off infection). But I concentrated on praying feverishly (no pun intended :) ), keeping her comfortable, and letting it run its course. The next day she was much improved. Thank you, Lord.

From the kitchen...an easy dinner of chicken salad sandwiches, tomato soup, pasta salad. Maybe, if there's time, some freshly baked zucchini bread as a snack this afternoon.

I am wearing...navy blue yoga pants with matching hoodie, black tank top, hair up in a ponytail.

I am creating...lots of fun little pretties: some sewing, some paper crafting, some painting. Maybe something worth showing in this space...we'll see.

I am going...to make a concerted effort to get the children outside every single day this week. I guess that means getting out of my pajamas every morning though, doesn't it? :)

I am hoping...to get all the Easter stuff packed away, as I never did get around to that last week.

I am hearing...Roo jingling some toy keys for Rascal to reach for; the dishwasher running; and "On the Sunny Side of the Street" playing on the radio. That song makes me smile.

I am praying...for my dad's business to pick up (he's been struggling for the past few years, but it's continuing to spiral downward). I'm also praying my continual prayer for health, hope, and happiness for my family and friends.

Around the house...still working on clearing the clutter from the craft room (on the plus side, it's like a treasure hunt as I'm coming across fabric and craft projects long since forgotten). Dropping off yet another bag of clothes and toys to the children's consignment shop.

One of my favorite things...coming home from the craft store, my head brimming with ideas and newfound creative energy to do something, anything! (gee, can you tell that I've got arts and crafts on the brain?? Almost every answer in my daybook this week centers around that theme!)

A few plans for the rest of the week: watching less TV and crafting more. It's amazing how much better I feel mentally after a productive night in the craft room. I don't get that feeling after sitting on the couch watching television all evening. So why is TV my go-to activity, after a long day? (Just for the record, my television viewing involves about 3 or 4 shows per week, so it's not insanely excessive by any means, but still...it could be less if I put forth the effort).

We also have a double-birthday party to throw this weekend, so I have to get together with my sister and plan the menu for that. This is known as the "busy season" in our family: 6 birthdays, 1 anniversary, Easter, Mother's Day, Memorial Day, Lobster Day, and Father's Day all in a 2 month timespan. Whew!!

A picture thought I am sharing...my Easter table centerpiece still alive and well (amazing, since I have a black thumb). I was worried they would wilt and die before these tiger lilies had a chance to open up. I've forgotten how much I enjoy fresh flowers on the table to gaze at throughout the day. They certainly add a nice punch of color, don't they?

Be sure to swing by Peggy's place for the links to all those taking part in the Daybook Society!

Simple Woman's Daybook

For today...April 13, 2009

Outside my window...the sun is just beginning to peep out from behind the haze. Water droplets are covering everything out there, as we had drizzly rain all day yesterday. But as a result of the wet weather we've had over the last week or two, everything is beginning to really "green up."

I am thinking...how much I'd like to go to bed earlier than I do. I think it would help me to be a better, happier Mama and wife and homemaker.

I am thankful for...my family and the opportunity to spend Easter with all of my loved ones. We hosted the holiday this year, and it was so wonderful to have those most dear and precious to me around our table.

From the kitchen...Easter dinner leftovers! All that extra cooking and baking paid off (plus the goodies brought by our guests), as we have quite the bounty stashed in the fridge. Yay! No cooking for me today. :)

I am wearing...black sweatpants (what else ?? It seems to be my standard "uniform"), navy blue sweatshirt, slippers.

I am creating...a new toy rotation schedule (sounds exciting, doesn't it?). I am going to clear out the excess and only keep what they truly love and use. But even without all the excess, the toys need to be rotated because I can't stand having more than half a dozen out at one time.

I am going...to the library for some fresh books to cuddle up and read with my littles.

I am hoping...for warm and sunny weather so we can plan some fun outings to do with our out-of-town family visiting this week.

I am hearing...Rascal taking apart his sister's train tracks. The clank of her spoon hitting the sides of the bowl as Roo is stirring her yogurt for the 100th time this morning--she says it is too lumpy (it's the kind with the cream layer on top). Nat King Cole is singing away on the radio.

I am praying...for more patience when it comes to interacting with my children and my husband after I've had a long night and no sleep (which seems to be the norm lately).

Around the house...finish changing out the closets (hang and fold Spring clothing and pack up winter stuff for the attic). Clear off some work space in the craft room so I can attempt to make a bit of progress on a few unfinished projects (since my husband's work schedule is super flexible this week, I might actually get some extra "me time").

One of my favorite things...how it takes my daughter quite a while to wake up in the morning or from a nap. In those sleepy, groggy moments before she fully awakens, she wraps her arms around my neck so tightly, asks me to hold her like a baby, and wants to be given "extra Mama loves."

A few plans for the rest of my week...pack away the Easter baskets and toss the artificial grass (Ugh! That stuff never really goes away, does it? Well, next year I am planning ahead and we are going to try growing our own real grass in the baskets). I also plan on dinner with my parents and coffee/grocery shopping with a friend. Yep, I said grocery shopping. It can be such a drudgery, why not "up" the pleasant factor and share it with a friend? ;)

A picture thought I am sharing...a daily scene in our home: waiting for the squirrels to arrive each morning and partake of the offering we leave on the porch.

Please swing by Peggy's place and take a peek at more daybook entries...

Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY...April 6, 2009

Outside my window... a fresh layer of snow is blanketing the earth. We had such a dry winter, with almost no snow to speak of. Now, it seems, we are getting caught up -- every few days we get some white fluff falling from the sky.

I am thinking...about the busy, busy week ahead:

*finish menu planning; grocery shopping twice (once for nonperishables and later in the week for the Easter ham and perishable vegetables/fruits)

*cleaning the house; making room in our dining space for putting the leaf in our table, plus room for the kiddie table

*preparing for an out-of-town guest who will be here for 10 days (this involves changing up the menus for the next couple of weeks...I don't think our guest would be too pleased with our standard fare of breakfast night and fend-for-yourself night! ;) Plus, there are diet restrictions involved, so it requires more planning ahead on my part)

*Decorating the house for Easter; dye the eggs; do some special Easter crafts

I am thankful for...My wonderful Mom who, even though she's only supposed to bring a vegetable dish for Easter dinner, will probably show up with half a dozen other things to help me out! She is just the kind of person who gives and gives and gives. She is always trying to lessen my load by taking on more than she should. I love her so, so much.

From the kitchen...an assortment of almond flour muffins: apple-cinnamon, banana-walnut, and blackberry. Plus, some Vanilla Honey Chamomile tea on the side! Dinner is...undecided. I'm lost without my menu plan (I took it off the fridge for some reason, and now I can't find it).

I am wearing...a purple turtleneck sweater, black sweats, cozy black socks and slippers.

I am creating...a Montessori practical life activity involving felt squares and buttons. My daughter eagerly tries to button her shirts, but it is very hard to do once the shirt is on her body and she's looking down at it from an awkward angle. Isn't it amazing what we, as adults, take for granted? Anyway, I saw a wonderful way to help her practice buttoning without the struggle. I'll post some pictures on it this week (ha! if I actually get around to it this week I'll be shocked!).

I am going...to finish this post and hop to it! Lots to be done and staring at it all isn't going to make it go away!

I am hoping...to sew some Easter placemats and a runner for the dining table. If I can't get to it, then I'm hoping to find some pretty Easter placemats on sale this week.

I am hearing...Roo sniffling (ugh! When is this cold virus going to leave us alone?), Rascal is playing quietly by himself (Yay! We are making so much progress in this area!!). The heat is humming and Frank Sinatra is on the radio.

Around the house...washing bed linens and opening a few windows -- even though the air is so chilly. You know when there has been sickness (thankfully just Spring colds, in our case) in the house and you want to get rid of that stale, germy air? Yep, that's what I aim to do this morning.

One of my favorite things... when my 3 1/2 year old daughter helps me go around the house and find things to donate to Vietnam Veterans of America, for a pick-up scheduled later in the week. I love her generous nature (even though most of the items she chose to give away belonged to her brother!)

A few plans for the rest of the week: see my "I am thinking..." answer above! ;)

Here is picture thought I am sharing... we went to a farm and there were about a dozen new lambs (all about 1 month old and already so big). You wouldn't know it by this picture, but they were bleating and kicking up their heels all over the pasture. What a hoot to watch! And look how woolly they are!

*Please swing by Peggy's place to read what many, many wonderful women are up to this Monday morning*

Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY March 30, 2009...

Outside my window...the ground is muddy as all the snow from last week's blizzard has already melted away. It's only a matter of time before Roo notices it too and wants to go outside and dig in it. Hmm....maybe I should keep the blinds and curtains closed today! ;)

But, as I have started typing, the snow has started to fall. The wind is picking up and the birds and squirrels are scurrying around the feeders. They're probably thinking that they better fill up before another blizzard hits! Fortunately, the forecast only calls for 3-6 inches.

I am thinking...about some home improvement projects I'd like to do. Some are small (like paint the playroom shelves a fun color) and some are large, time-consuming, and messy (like sand down, prime, and paint the tiles surrounding the fireplace). My husband would probably prefer that I spend time on more significant home improvement projects like making dinner and putting the laundry away (so he doesn't have to dig through the basket for clean socks). :)

I am thankful for...my husband's job. Three people were laid off at his company last week, so that is always unsettling. Certainly makes you grateful for having an income, incoming!

From the kitchen...something with chicken, as it was buy one, get one. I have recently discovered a food blog called dinner's on me. The varied selection guarantees that I will find a recipe (or 20) that I want to try. Her pictures make me drool!

I am wearing...red sweatpants with a white stripe down the side and a dark green chenille, long sleeve sweater. I look like Christmas, which I guess is only fitting given the blowing snow whipping around outside.

I am creating...several new notebooks to organize my thoughts into certain genres. Right now I have a spiral bound notebook that I use to jot down various thoughts and to-do's. There is no rhyme or reason to my current notebook, so everything is all jumbled together. I can never find the page I'm looking for, and I waste huge amounts of time flipping the pages until I come across what I need. I need to categorize my thoughts and numerous lists into separate notebooks. Pretty notebooks are a must, so I will need to doctor plain notebooks with cute paper, stamps, or stickers. Of course, I already have a Homemaking Notebook in progress that I started over a year ago after seeing so many of them on other blogs. Maybe I should focus on fine-tuning that one instead?

I am going... to stretch my food budget this week...no more quick runs to the store for "just a couple of things," because I always come home with several bags of those "couple of things!!" I will shop from my own freezer and pantry this week.

I am reading... It's All Too Much by Peter Walsh. I'm hoping it will give me the nudge I need to get rid of some things I've been holding on to for several reasons (but none of them valid enough to justify keeping the stuff).

I am hoping...to finalize my Easter menu this week. I have a vague idea about what I'd like to serve, but I still need to hammer out the small details: like Easter breakfast, side dishes to Easter dinner, and of course, dessert. As I said, just small details!

I am hearing...the heat just kicked on. Rascal is "talking" to the snowflakes falling. Roo is reciting lines from the book Up Above and Down Below.

Around the house...wiping down and sanitizing all surfaces today. We've had a cold making the rounds in our house as of late, and I'm on the warpath against germs!

One of my favorite things...snuggling on the couch with my daughter and a huge stack of new library books.

A few plans for the rest of the week: a visit with a specialist at Children's Hospital, a playdate with my sister and her son, drop off some items at the children's consignment store, write a thank you note to my aunt for a lovely card and gift she sent last week.

Here is picture thought I am sharing... the flurry at the feeder while the flurries fall from the sky!

Visit Peggy's site for the links to more Daybook reflections!

Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY...March 23, 2009

Outside my window...the weather forecast threatened snow, but this morning's skies are just gray. The wind was howling last night and I can see tiny puddles on the lid of the sandbox out back. So, we got a little rain instead of the snow, which is fine with me! When I opened the back door to throw out some food for the squirrels, the air was steeped with that wonderful smell of damp earth. I love that smell -- so spring-like!

I am thinking... God is so gracious. I am blessed beyond words.

I am thankful for... our family and friends, our home. That we have all we need, plus the little extras that make life more fun.

From the kitchen...Honey sesame-glazed wild salmon, sauteed spinach with garlic, and bread sticks.

I am wearing...Chocolate-brown yoga pants and matching top, thick socks, my hair up in a clip.

I am creating... homemade coasters using a technique I've never tried before. If they turn out decently, I'll post a picture!

I am going... to look through my cookbooks for a special treat to make for a very special friend coming to visit on Friday.

I am reading... "Roots, Shoots, Buckets, and Boots" by Sharon Lovejoy. It is a beautiful book packed full of ideas. It makes me want to run to the nearest nursery and buy seeds, soil, and brand-new gardening gloves!

I am hoping...to re-write my evening schedule, as something is out-of-whack. I am finding myself coming downstairs in the morning to much clutter and mini-messes from the night before. I think I've been skipping my nightly pick-up in favor of reading or computer time (*wince*). Must get back into the habit, as it makes my mornings so much more pleasant.

I am hearing...Rascal banging on the back glass door, saying "hello" to the squirrels and birds eating breakfast out there. Roo is singing a combination of "Jingle Bells" and "In Your Easter Bonnet." :)

Around the house...change out the closets: pack up the winter clothes and bring out the spring/summer ones. We've had temperatures hovering near 80 for the last couple of weeks and I've been broiling --even under my lightest-weight winter clothes. So, I'm sure as soon as I put the sweaters and jackets in the attic, we will have weeks of bitter cold and snow. Because that's the way Mother Nature works, doesn't she? ;)

One of my favorite things... taking my little girl to the craft store with me. I love her "oohs" and "ahhs" over the endless possibilities! It's so wonderful to wander the aisles with someone who is just as keen to check everything out as I am (no offense to my sweet husband, but he hates going to the craft store with me. I'm always on a time limit when he comes along!!). And I'll never forget the look of awe on her face yesterday when I told her she could pick one thing out and we would buy it. She's perfectly happy just to look and never pesters me to buy her things that she sees (I know, those days are numbered, I'm sure ;)), so I love to surprise her once in a while and buy something of her choosing.

A few plans for the rest of the week: continue the decluttering battle, a visit to my mom and dad's house (as my mom is a teacher and on Spring Break this week), call for a donation pick up of clothes/kitchen items/toys that I've gathered together, and hopefully get in a little sewing too.

Here is picture thought I am sharing...Hmm...looks like my husband dressed our son today. For some reason, he has a mental block when it comes to remembering that the onesie is supposed to be snapped underneath the pants, not over them!

Be sure to visit Peggy's site for the links to more Daybook reflections!

Simple Woman's Daybook

Visit Peggy's site for the links to more reflections!

FOR TODAY: March 16, 2009...

Outside my window..."There are tracks in the snow. Who made the tracks? Where do they go?" :) Those lines pop into my head every single time I read the line, "Outside my window." The book "Tracks in the Snow" permanently resides in our winter reading basket, so it's getting a lot of face time, and its words are never far from my mind apparently.

But, thankfully my real answer has nothing to do with tracks in the snow. There is not a speck of the white stuff on the ground. It's sunny and supposed to be near 70 degrees today. A great day to open the windows and let in a Spring-is-near breeze!

I am thinking... I need to be disciplined about going to bed earlier. As much as I want to get a number of things done after the kids are asleep, I need to remember that my sleep should be a priority. It makes for a much better day when I feel rested (or as rested as one can be after hourly wakings from our littlest little!).

I am thankful for...my sister. She is coming over this afternoon to watch the children for a couple of hours while I get some work accomplished around the house. Or maybe I'll just take a shower and a nap instead??!!

From the kitchen...Chicken Cordon Bleu (before my husband eats all the honey ham and I'll have none left to stuff inside the chicken!), buttered egg noodles, green beans.

I am wearing...black pants (seems to be my standard on Mondays), white top, cream-colored cardigan sweater, black/grey flecked socks

I am creating... a tentative Easter weekend plan: menu, activities, Good Friday and Easter Sunday mass attendance, Easter basket ideas, projects around the house that need doing before entertaining guests.

I am reading..."You're Going to Do What?! Helping You Understand the Homeschool Decision" Of course, I already understand the decision, but I'm thinking my family and in-laws will need help coming to terms with our choice.

I am hoping...to firm up some Lenten resolves. I slacked a bit over the weekend. Only a few weeks left and I want to finish strong. And then, who knows, maybe continue my "sacrifices" beyond Easter? Something to think on...

I am hearing...the churning of the washing machine and the hum of the dryer.

Around the house...the toys seem to have multiplied overnight. I think it's time to put some away in the attic for the time being. The kids won't miss them and they'll be like new again when I unveil them in a month or two!

One of my favorite things...early morning cuddles in bed with my little baby under one arm and my big baby under the other arm.

A few plans for the rest of the week: special crafts and music for St. Patty's Day, another appointment at Children's Hospital, scanning cookbooks for Easter menu ideas.

Here is picture thought I am sharing...tulips coming up in the garden. Oh, how I love tulips!

Simple Woman's Daybook

Visit Peggy's site for the links to more reflections

FOR TODAY: March 9, 2009...

Outside my window... a gray, overcast morning. So unlike this past weekend, which was so sunny and spring-like. The heat actually kicked on this morning. We haven't felt the blast of warm air from the vents for almost a week.

I am thinking... I'm going to have to save this post as a draft, because there is no way I can finish it in one sitting: Rascal is getting into all kinds of mischief this morning as I type. Just living up to his name, I guess! ;)

I am thankful for... the specialty cocoa from Williams Sonoma that I'm drinking right now. It was a gift from a dear friend who shares my love for the chocolate brew.

From the kitchen...it's Monday, so that means Breakfast Night for dinner. I believe in starting my week off easy!

I am wearing... cozy black sweatpants, plum colored thermal top, fuzzy socks.

I am creating... a new menu plan to put into the rotation. I'm ready to say so long to the hearty (and sometimes heavy) casseroles and stews and hello to some lighter fare: salads, sandwiches.

I am going...to run to the store once Mark comes home from work and I have the car. We have run out of staples: organic yogurt, fruit, and milk, some juice, coconut oil, and mini marshmallows for my cocoa (yes, I consider that a staple!).

I am reading...the new magazine put out by the Food Network.

I am hoping...to attend a communal reconciliation service at church this week. No, change "hoping" to "definitely going." I have been avoiding going to confession for, well, far too long.
I need to go and I know I'll be so glad afterward.

I am hearing...one of my favorite songs on the radio: "Here Comes the Sun" by the Beatles.

Around the house...we spent so much time outside enjoying the weather yesterday that I slacked on some homecaring duties. So, I need to get caught up today. I'm thinking: laundry, pick up downstairs, and wipe down/polish the dining table (on top of the usual Monday cleaning duties: changing linens on the beds, open windows and air out the house, wash bath mats and towels).

One of my favorite things...watching the birds splashing around in the bird bath (the sun has just poked its head out of the clouds, so it's warming up in a hurry. Guess it's bathtime!).

A few plans for the rest of the week: following up with my son's specialist regarding the pathology reports we've been waiting on since last Tuesday. Hoping and praying for good news.

I'm also hoping to tweak our daily schedule now that the weather is more cooperative.

Here is picture thought I am sharing...new buds on our tree!

Simple Woman's Daybook

Visit Peggy's site for more Daybook reflections

FOR TODAY: March 2, 2009...

Outside my window...I hear the birds chirping, as I'm sure they are wondering where their breakfast is -- the feeder is empty! Must get Hubs to fill it, pronto! The sun is so bright today that it actually makes me squint when I look out our south window.

I am thinking...of the errands I need to run since my husband is home today and I can have our only car.

I am thankful for... the opportunity to sleep in today while the kids played with Daddy downstairs.

From the kitchen...Turkey tenderloin marinating in a creamy dijon sauce, roasted potatoes, green beans.

I am wearing...red and white flannel PJ pants (even though it's already 10:30 am! *Gasp* But, like I said, I slept in today!!), white thermal top, socks.

I am creating... a list in my head of the little projects I'd like to accomplish this afternoon, after all the running around is through.

I am going...to the store to pick up some even bigger girl underwear for my daughter (she is always telling me that the 2T/3T ones are too tight).

I am reading...last month's issue of Southern Living magazine.

I am hoping...that all goes smoothly tomorrow: my son is having a procedure tomorrow morning at Children's Hospital. Family is coming to stay with our daughter here at our home while my husband and I will be staying close to our son's side.

I am hearing...my daughter saying she is "just like a little Mommy" as she sweeps up the mess she made cutting paper and pom-poms in the living room.

Around the house...laundry is beckoning. Specifically, the cloth diaper wipes.

One of my favorite things...hearing the little conversation my daughter carries on with herself as she plays.

A few plans for the rest of the week: laying low after we get back from Children's. But also getting outside as much as possible, as the week is supposed to be lovely!

Here is picture thought I am sharing... You've got to love Playmobil!