BEING Robin 01.31.2012

THINKING: I'm really glad that January is over.  Not sure why exactly, just really looking forward to February.

DOING: We're off to Solvang this weekend to spend a little time with Surferman's mom and step-dad.  I'm excited for a mini getaway.  I've been thinking about Summer and vacation plans.  

COOKING: Still working on cleaning out the freezer and pantry.  I made a huge pot of chili with leftover pork for tonight, and a pot of split pea soup with ham for tomorrow night.  I felt like I was pulling something over on someone.  I cooked two dinners at once.  Ha!  Take that!

TEACHING: Grom and I have been having a lot of fun with money.  I grab a handful of change from the change mug and give it to him.  He tells me how much is there.  I make a record sheet with some questions, like "How much do you have left if you buy an ice cream for $.99?" and "How many nickels would that amount be?"  He keeps asking if he gets to keep the money when he's done.  Little does he know that the change mug money becomes my Starbucks money... don't see me giving it away anytime soon.

READING: I still haven't found a novel.  I'm half through with the "Night Circus".  I keep forgetting to put part 2 on my phone.

WATCHING:  I recorded a marathon of the "Love..." movies - can't remember the author, but the main characters all seem like they would've been friends with Laura Ingalls.  I've been totally sucked in.  I've watched 3 and have a bunch to go.  I like how they gently tie God into the plot lines.

CREATING: Restaurants.  Grom and I are engrossed in a silly iPad game.  It's a total time waster, but we are having a ball.

THANKING: Grom and I were able to spend a lot of time together this past weekend.  7 year old boys are awesome.

PRAYING: Wisdom in an interesting opportunity for Surferman, diligence in completing my organizing challenge, Grom's karate belt test on Saturday and a sweet visit with Surferman's parents this weekend.

STUDYING: One more week of Joseph for Kids Club.  I have been wanting to really dig into and pull apart a book of the Bible.  I'm stuck choosing which one.  What's your favorite epistle?

WORDING: quixotic (adj.) - exceedingly idealistic; unrealistic and impractical. I find I'm inundated with quixotic ideas for Valentine's Day.

So that's what it's like being Robin this week.

Looking for the Daybook?  I've moved on. I'm starting my own thing... BEING Robin.  You can join me if you want, but don't BE Robin.  Be yourself.  Let me know if you share your week, I'd love to read it.

BEING Robin 01.24.2012

THINKING: The parents group at Grom's school is organizing (still).  We have 56 students and only 11 parents moms showed up for the monthly meeting.  Why don't parents participate?  What would motivate them?

DOING: Our schedule is generally busy. This week is busy plus!  It seems like there is something extra at every turn.  It's all good stuff and nothing that can be eliminated.  Just... have... to... keep... moving.

COOKING:  Woo Hoo!  We have leftover spaghetti!  Spaghetti Pancakes this week for dinner.... YES!  I'm going to post my recipe after I make them this week.

TEACHING: Grom has no center time this week, so we are doing the independent study thing.  Grom has been great about getting his work done.  He learned about New York and chose New Mexico as his next state.  

READING: Still listening to "The NIght Circus" by Erin Morgenstern.  It's very interesting and I suspect it will make a beautiful movie.  Grom and I are listening to "A Wrinkle in Time" by Madeline L'Engle.  They are reading it aloud at Grom's school so I'm glad we are reading it too.  I remember reading it as a kid, but don't remember how strange it is.


WATCHING: Ants crawl through their habitat.  It's amazing that they work so well together.

CREATING: Grom asked to do some art.  I saw a watercolor idea and set him loose.  When it's done, I'll share it.  It's cool.  It's fun to see him being artistic.

THANKING: Rooibos tea.  No caffeine and a warm smooth treat.

PRAYING: I'm starting a prayer journal.  At the beginning of the year, my pastor challenged us to pray for 12 things every day.  Easy enough right?  I'm ready to see what the Lords going to do.

STUDYING: I've had fun digging into the life of Joseph to teach Kids Club.  There are so many great lessons to learn from Jacob's boys.  Still plugging along with my reading plan.

So that's what it's like being Robin this week.

Looking for the Daybook?  I've moved on. I'm starting my own thing... BEING Robin.  You can join me if you want, but don't BE Robin.  Be yourself.  Let me know if you share your week, I'd love to read it.

BEING Robin 01.18.12

THINKING: About single moms.  Wow, what a tough job.  I can't imagine being the only or primary parent.  I'll be praying that the Lord show me ways to help.  
PLANNING: The teachers at Grom's school are throwing a pajama movie night.  They are raising money to go to the Montessori Convention. I think it's sad that they have to have a fundraiser, but that's another soapbox.  Grom really wants to go.  I need to find out what movie they're showing.  I hope it works out... DATE NIGHT!

DOING: I started Weight Watchers on Monday.  They have an app for my phone and it's like a game... as long as I have points left I can eat anything I want.  

COOKING: Buffalo Chicken Chili.  So yummy.  Next time I'd add more Frank's Red Hot Sauce (which is probably the best hot sauce EVER).  Just 4 points - 7 points with the blue cheese on top.  Yep... I'm counting points.

TEACHING: I missing my verve when it comes to Grom's schooling.  It's been a couple of hard weeks.  We have a new learning period starting on Monday.  It will get better when I have time to do some planning and organizing.

READING: I started listening to "The NIght Circus" by Erin Morgenstern.  I'm not very far in.  I also just got "10 Habits of Happy Mothers" by Meg Meeker from the library.  I only have 2 weeks to l iisten to it, so I think it's going on the front burner.  Still looking for something to read.

WATCHING: Top Chef.  Grom likes to watch it with me.  It's amazing what they can do with the challenges and amount of time they're given.  I'm rooting for Nyesha, who is actually currently eliminated, but has a chance to get back into it via Last Chance Kitchen.  

CREATING: I'm sewing the binding on a quilt.  I think sewing the binding is one of my favorite parts of quilting.  It's so relaxing and it means the quilt is done.

THANKING: I'm not a single mom.  Surferman... you rock!

PRAYING: Surferman's business, Grom's obedience and listening, my discipline in getting to bed at a decent time and getting to the gym in the morning.

STUDYING: I'm studying the life of Joseph for teaching at SKC.  I had a short stall with my Bible in a year.  I have a few days to make up, but I'm current and moving ahead.


WORDING: verve - vigor and spirit or enthusiasm.

So that's what it's like being Robin this week.

Looking for the Daybook?  I've moved on. I'm starting my own thing... BEING Robin.  You can join me if you want, but don't BE Robin.  Be yourself.  Let me know if you share your week, I'd love to read it.

BEING Robin 1.10.12

THINKING: I'm dumping the Daybook.  My sister and dad gave me a hard time about some of the sillier writing prompts from the Daybook.  Yes... it is most ALWAYS dark outside when I blog.  So I'm starting my own thing... BEING Robin.  You can join me if you want, but don't BE Robin.  Be yourself.

PLANNING: It's a pretty standard week.  So glad to have our routine back.  YAY school!  We are celebrating Christmas with my dad's family this weekend.  It will be great to spend time with them.

DOING: I got my haircut today.  My new hairdresser is great.

COOKING: I made the yummiest burritos for dinner tonight.  I cooked dried pinto beans in the crock-pot.  We stuffed them with the beans, rice, cheese and my secret ingredient... smashed cauliflower.  I snuck that veggie in and no one noticed.  Hot sauce and salsa added some zing.

TEACHING: Grom is back to school this week.  We went to the aquarium last Friday so we're focusing on fun things like jellyfish, octopus and sharks.  We gave Grom a Karyn Henley's Begin-To-Read Bible.  He's been reading it every day.

READING:  I'm not into anything right now.  I've tried a couple of books, but can't get involved in anything.  I need some suggestions, both for something to read and something to listen to.

WATCHING: Mr. Popper's Penguins.  Grom and I really enjoyed listening to the book and were really apprehensive.  I'm not the biggest Jim Carrey fan.  Well.. they didn't use any of the book, but it was a nice story.  A couple of scenes caused Grom and I to laugh uncontrollably.  We recommend the book first and then the movie.

CREATING: Pins on Boards.  I enjoy Pinterest.

THANKING: For opportunities to learn about God with Grom.  Right now he's memorizing Psalm 147:5.  "Great [is] our Lord, and mighty in power; His understanding [is] infinite."  Infinite - without bounds or limits... WOW!

PRAYING: Surferman's business, Grom's obedience and listening, my discipline in getting to bed at a decent time.  Surferman and I have some reorganizing to do... unity in that project.

STUDYING: I started reading a One Year Bible on the 1st.  I'm clicking along... 10 days for 10 days.  I'm going to start co-teaching a women's Bible study.  I've only taught kids for a long time.  We are going through the Gospels.

WORDING: comport - to behave in a particular way.  At the aquarium, Grom comported himself with expected good manners.

So that's what it's like being Robin this week.

daybook 12.12.11

FOR TODAY - Monday December 12, 2011

Outside my window... it's dark.  Another long day.

I am thinking... I really should be in bed.  I'm going to the gym in the morning.

I am thankful for... how fast Christmas cards can be obtained.

From the learning rooms... a little of this and a little of that.  We've been talking about digestion.

From the kitchen... Christmas goodies.  Today we finished the Holiday Brownies.  Tomorrow it's more Christmas Tea and some fancy popcorn.

I am wearing... comfy clothes.

I am creating... blog posts, Christmas memories, goodies, shopping lists, etc.

I am going... to mail my Christmas cards before Christmas.  I am determined.

I am reading... Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins (listening actually), a book by Michael Baron and listening to A Wrinkle in Time by Madeline L'Engle with Grom.

Here is picture  I am sharing... 

Grom's school picture - 2nd grade.

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daybook 12.5.11

FOR TODAY - Monday December 5, 2011

Outside my window... it's dark, but I see the twinkling of Christmas lights.

I am thinking...  about teaching Kids Club this week.  Old Testament prophesies of Jesus.  If that doesn't put me in a Christmas mindset no amount of decorations will.

I am thankful for... a fun day with Grom filled with lots of fa's and la's.

From the learning rooms... pushing our way to Winter Break.  I think we are both ready for a break.

From the kitchen... My parents made me the yummiest birthday dinner tonight.  BBQ Chicken, broccoli, asparagus and rice-a-roni.  Finished off with my sisters world famous chocolate cake.  It was worth the wait.

I am wearing... comfy sweats and a tee.

I am creating... Christmas memories.  When I say, "fa"... you say, "la la la".

I am going... to sleep well tonight... I'm bushed.

I am reading... listening to Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins, a new book by Michael Baron that I can't remember the name of (I'm sure I will still be reading it next week).  Grom and I just finished The Wonderful Wizard of Oz by L.Frank Baum.  We started A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens, but I don't think Grom will stick with it.

I am hoping... to send out Christmas cards this year.  I'm not sure when I last did it.

Around the house... it looks a lot like Christmas.  I should share some pictures.

One of my favorite things... the seat warmers in my van.  So toasty.  Especially on cold morning drives to the gym.

Vocabulary word of the week:
paroxysm - a sudden, uncontrollable outburst
Christmas music strikes some people I know with paroxysms of happiness.

A few plans for the rest of the week: It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas.  Women's Christmas Tea, Christmas Tea Party with the Girlies, Christmas Dinner, Gingerbread House Party and more Christmas prefixed fun.

Here is a picture I am sharing...

 Grom and I were surprised when we came out of our rooms wearing the same color shirts and jeans.

We just had to both wear our Chucks.

Twins for the day!

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daybook 11.29.11

FOR TODAY - Monday November 29, 2011

Outside my window... it's dark. We've had some beautiful sunsets lately.

I am thinking... about a snack.  

I am thankful for... a nice birthday with my guys.  I got to go grocery shopping!  (that is real enthusiasm).

From the learning rooms... Grom and I played a fun game of Silly Sentences tonight before he went to bed.  I just bought it at a rummage sale.  Grom was thrilled that a game could be called "school".

From the kitchen... stuffed baked potatoes.  Yum and frugal.

I am wearing... brown sweat pants and a red tee.

I am creating... a new tradition for Christmas.  Watch for more about it.

I am going... to meet friends to play and catch up after school.  I hope the weather is nice.

I am reading... Rain Song by Alice J. Wisler, listening to Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins and listening to How to Train Your Dragon by Cressida Caswell with Grom.

I am hoping... to watch lots of cheesy Christmas movies in the next few weeks.

Around the house... it's time to get out the decorations.  For now, Christmas music will have to do.

One of my favorite things...  getting up early and going to the gym (maybe if I keep saying it...).

Vocabulary word of the week:
redolent (adj.): fragrant; smelling suggestive; reminiscent
Our home will soon be redolent with the smells of Christmas - baking and a Christmas tree.

A few plans for the rest of the week: My pastor and his wife are finalizing the adoption of their 3 kids.  We get to join them in court and then celebrate with our church family later on Friday.  It's great to see how God has put together this precious family.

Here is picture I am sharing...

a super fun swing at "the best park ever"

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daybook 11.14.11

FOR TODAY - Monday November 14, 2011

Outside my window... it's dark.  It's been one of those long days.   I think about this morning and it feels like a couple of days ago.

I am thinking... that I should be going to bed.  I've been trying to get up earlier and am committed to being at the gym in the morning.

I am thankful for... the end of soccer season. Grom loves futebol.  He is getting better and better.  But boy did it complicate things this year.  Without soccer our life is settling into a nice routine.

From the learning rooms... GOOD STUFF!  Grom and I had been struggling a bit with school.  One of us always seemed to end up crying.  It was terrible.  Last week I had the idea to include him in planning his schoolwork.  He plans more than I would and does it cheerfully.  YAHOO!

From the kitchen... we're making Loco Moco for dinner this week.  It was a whole family favorite when we were in Maui.  Just thinking about it makes me excited.

I am wearing... comfy black stretchy pants and my red sparkly top with a cozy blanket.

I am creating... all the stuff of normal life... yummy meals, interesting school lessons, blog posts, 

I am going... to be doing a bunch of blogging.  I finished some things on my list of 101 things to do and have some other events to share.

I am reading... Rain Song by Alice J. Wisler, listening to Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins (I've been sucked into the Hunger Games) and listening to Charlie and the Great Glass Elevator by Roald Dahl with Grom.

I am hoping... Surferman does well on his recertification tests this week.  He's been studying hard.  I pray his knowledge can translate to the test form.

Around the house... we cleared all the boxes of discards and took them to Grom's school rummage sale.  It's gone from my life and the school raised $1,300.  Win-win!

One of my favorite things... being able to say, "I went to the gym today".

Vocabulary word of the week:

torpid: (adj) apathetic, sluggish, or lethargic

Surferman feels torpid when he eats too much.

A few plans for the rest of the week: dentist, karate, getting ready for the holidays, planning, decluttering, organizing... and on and on.

Here are some pictures I'm sharing...

(rain + friends)way too quite / parents not paying enougth attention

= MUDDY MESS

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daybook 06.27.11

FOR TODAY - Monday June 27, 2011

Outside my window... summer is here! Beautiful!

I am thinking... about the 4th of July... making plans... celebrating with family and friends... and saying goodbye to Gogo.

I am thankful for... stability.

From the learning rooms... We just finished "How to Eat Fried Worms" in the car. Audiobooks are the greatest. Our library's hold fees are going up though in July... bummer.

From the kitchen... over baked but still yummy tofu. We had guests for dinner. It was kinda embarrassing how bad dinner was.

I am wearing... really comfy black floaty capris, an orange tee and flip flops (pretty much my uniform)

I am creating... random pieces of crocheted stuff. I learned how to crochet last week. Now I'm working on my stitches so I can start making beanies. It's easier than I thought.

I am going... to not forget my Bible study group this week. I spaced last week. When I realized it, I felt SO dumb.

I am reading... Crunch Time (audiobook) by Diane Mott Davidson and Third Times a Charm by Virginia Smith.

I am hoping... to watch Grom swim like a fish this week. I'd love to see him starting to do some strokes, and fully expect a forward flip into the pool.

Around the house... the vegetables are planted. Can't wait to see if Grom and Grandma actually get some tomatoes. It's really hard to grow tomatoes at the beach.

One of my favorite things... toilet paper. Anyone disagree?

Vocabulary word of the week:
tomfoolery: a silly act, matter or thing, silly or foolish behavior
I'm ready for some tomfoolery, my life has been rather serious lately.

A few plans for the rest of the week: swimming lessons, VBS, karate, gymnastics, Bible Study, driving here, driving there, driving everywhere, Kid's Night Out and DATE NIGHT!

Here is picture I am sharing...



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daybook 03.22.11

FOR TODAY - Tuesday June 21, 2011 - The first day of SUMMER!

Outside my window... it's dark. Another day is done.

I am thinking... about loss, about sin, about obedience. It's cheery in my head (not!).

I am thankful for... a great year with our Swiss son. Having him as part of our family happened unexpectedly, but from the moment we met, it was clear it was what we were supposed to do. Grom got a big brother and Gogo got to be a big brother (he's a youngest).

From the learning rooms... lots of reading. Audiobooks in the car are the latest rage. We listened to Mr. Popper's Penguins and now Alice's Adventures in Wonderland. I like it!

From the kitchen... just trying to cook the things I plan. So far so good this week. Tonight it was Trader Joe's Turkey Bolognese with pasta. Tomorrow, some boneless skinless chicken breast hits the crockpot.

I am wearing... black capris, chartreuse tee, black flip flops and I took a risk and threw on a black with white polka dot scarf. I don't think it worked, but it did cover a spot on my tee.

I am creating... fingerpainting with Grom and his buddy. Grom didn't get to do as much art at school this year as he did last year. I'm shocked and sad how much he's forgotten (like basic color mixing). It motivates me to do more with him over the summer.

I am going... to figure out how to take more care of myself.

I am reading... Age Before Beauty by Virginia Smith. And listening to Crunch Time by Diane Mott Davidson.

I am hoping... that I do a better job of keeping in touch with Gogo than I usually do keeping in touch with other people who are no longer in my daily life.

Around the house... a bench I ordered from Pottery Barn will hopefully be delivered shortly. I can't wait to get rid of the table that's been keeping the benches spot warm.

One of my favorite things... watching Gogo and Grom together... playing iPad games, kicking soccer balls around, "exercising", relaxing in the sun... it goes on and on. I'm going to miss it.

Vocabulary word of the week:

proclivity: a natural inclination toward something, predisposition, propensity

Gogo had an obvious proclivity for becoming a part of our family

Here is picture I am sharing...

Rub a dub dub, four men in a tub.

(an after surfing soak to warm up)

A few plans for the rest of the week: Grom has soccer camp all week. I'm blessed to be able to have lunch with a friend tomorrow. My grandmother is coming to visit. We celebrate my nieces' 3rd birthday. And I'm sure there's more

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daybook 06.13.11

FOR TODAY - Monday June 13, 2011

Outside my window... it's beautiful! sunny... not much wind... we're eating dinner outside tonight.

I am thinking... about what I might do when I'm done blogging.

I am thankful for... family (blood relations) and "family" (Christ related). I am so blessed.

From the learning rooms... this summer is all about reading. Grom and I just finished some "One Minute Reader" and movable alphabet practice.

From the kitchen... I don't have to do much cooking this week. Lots of eating out. Tonight my parents are making chicken and ribs... yum!

I am wearing... flip flops, black capris and a pretty (and very soft) blue t-shirt

I am creating... all of my creativity has been random and practical. I really want to get the binding on my quilt. It's going to look so nice on our bed.

I am going... to have lunch with a friend tomorrow. We don't spend much time together. She's in the middle of some hard times. I'm hoping to encourage her a bit.

I am reading... Age Before Beauty by Virginia Smith and The Trumpet of the Swan by E.B. White (with Grom).

I am hoping... Gogo's going away party is great. Facebook says we have 100 people coming. I think it could be a few more. I think I need to buy more chocolate and cheese.

Around the house... Gogo's parents and brother arrive at our home on Wednesday. I look forward to meeting them.

One of my favorite things... the reusable plastic plates that I bought at Walmart recently. They are cheerful and colorful. They also come clean easily in the dishwasher and are going to save me buckets of money - I won't be buying disposable plates anymore.

Vocabulary word of the week: feckless: incompetent, ineffective, indifferent.

I've made many feckless attempts to get up early in the morning.

A few plans for the rest of the week: Gogo finishes his finals, Grom enjoys his first week of summer, Gogo's family arrives, lots of fun and activity, Grom's buddy spends a day and a night with us as his brother goes to the hospital (again!), throw in some karate, some gymnastics, a trip to Farmer's Market and it''ll be a busy and perfect week.

Here is picture I'm sharing...

My dad has been scanning old pictures. Here's me. I was a cute baby.

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daybook 4.25.11

FOR TODAY - Monday April 25, 2011

Outside my window... I'm sitting in the window at one of my Starbucks. I'm invisible. No one knows I'm here. It's great. It's a beautiful day, but no one is sitting outside.

I am thinking... about how nice it is to "disappear" for a few minutes.

I am thankful for... 86 servants at our church who came out to help with our Resurrection Service yesterday. And for all the people who braved some heavy and wet drizzle to come and celebrate Jesus' victory.

From the learning rooms... today is Grom's last day of spring break. Back at it tomorrow. He has a new school briefcase. (His choice). Maybe it will motivate him to work a little more independently.

From the kitchen... tonight it's homemade Cauliflower Soup. Tomorrow it's Ling Lings (those delicious potstickers that are on sale as Costco right now). It's a potsticker gorge at our house tomorrow - with cucumber salad too.

I am wearing... see below... with denim capris and my surf fin Sanuks - which I realized today are wearing out :-(

I am creating... nothing. I think I need a personal retreat day to regroup, re-prioritize and get a new plan.

I am going... to reappear when I pick up Grom and Gogo after Grom's karate lesson.

I am reading... Circle of Quilters by Jennifer Chiaverini. I still need to finish Radical. I think I'm having trouble processing it (because it necessitates change). Another reason for that retreat day.

I am hoping... Surferman has a busy work week. It's always better when he's busy.

Around the house... Grom's room has been condemned by OSHA and the Health Department. It's unsafe and dangerous to my health and sanity. TOO much stuff. AND it really needs a good cleaning (I don't remember ever saying he could eat tortilla chips in there). Surferman and I are fed up. We're going to clean sweep it and start over. Let the garage sale pile begin!

One of my favorite things... venti decaf iced americano with vanilla syrup and room for half and half.

Vocabulary word of the week:

imperturbable: marked by extreme calm, serene

I hope that when I reappear, I'm imperturbable and that it lasts.

A few plans for the rest of the week: Hoping it will be a pretty normal week and that I'll get lots done. Grom and Gogo's Excellent Adventure (with Mom). Road Trip! We're going to Santa Barbara on Friday. We're working on plans. So far... zoo.

Here is picture I am sharing... shoot... I guess I'm not invisible.

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daybook 04.11.11

FOR TODAY - Monday April 11, 2011

Outside my window... it's dark. It's the end of another really long day. Sometimes my days just seem to go on and on and then I go to bed.

I am thinking... about education. Why isn't our public system better? And "the fall" is to broad of an answer.

I am thankful for... Jamba Juice. A yummy dinner on the run.

From the learning rooms... lost of reading practice... sight words, phonics, and BOB books

From the kitchen... sparkling water! We just got a soda stream. I think I'm in love.

I am wearing... my pajamas.

I am creating... all my creativity as of late has been funneled towards graphic design at church, lesson plans for Grom and the occasional blog post. My poor studio is clean and I still don't have a chance to spend any time there.

I am going... to sleep really good tonight. yawn.

I am reading... Just finished Sisterchicks Do The Hula by Robin Jones Gunn and I listened to Summer Snow by Nicole Baart. Radical should be finished this week.

I am hoping... actually wondering if I can finish this post before my laptop's battery runs out.

Around the house... Grom has a CD from They Might Be Giants from the library. I loved TMBG when I was in college. They're all grown up and writing songs for kids... funny songs for kids.

One of my favorite things... Surferman's new cologne (CK free).

Vocabulary word of the week:
crapulent - sick from eating or drinking too much

[Lots of people complain of feeling crapulent after Thanksgiving]

A few plans for the rest of the week: It will make me realize how crazy my schedule is if I list it all out. Let's just hit the highlights... prayer - volleyball - time with family.

Here is picture I am sharing...

Grom in 3D

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daybook 03.22.11

FOR TODAY - Tuesday March 22, 2011

Outside my window... this time change is still playing a number on me. My evenings are really screwed up. I just can't believe it's as late as it is. And I'm still having trouble getting up in the morning.

I am thinking... about an email I have to write. I need to catch up with a friend and I just don't know what to say. Couldn't they just read my blog?

I am thankful for... yummy meals from the freezer. We had a baked french toast tonight. I just had to buy some bacon and sausage. And said bacon and sausage were on a fantabulous sale... thank you very much.

From the learning rooms... It's another independent study week. My parents are watching the girlies, so Grom gets to hang out with them too. He has a list of stuff to get through. We're working on him working independently. I found a great online math program that Grom is really excited about.

From the kitchen... I'm looking forward to Ham and Chickpea Slow Cooker Soup and No Knead bread on Friday.

I am wearing... black pants, olive green tee and my Sanuk surf sandals

I am creating... It's crafting weekend!

I am going... to get a binding on a quilt. And I hope to get another quilt top done.

I am reading... "Radical". I finished "Life from Scratch" last night. I hope to get to that Sister Chicks book this week.

I am hoping... that things go well for my friends tomorrow. They have to take their sweet boy back to Stanford for another test. God grant them peace.

Around the house... boys doing homework. Grom is doing math on the computer (Roman Numerals!) and Gogo is studying for a history test.

One of my favorite things... catching a great sale at the market. Hello bacon and sausage!

Vocabulary word of the week:
fortnight - two weeks

In a fortnight, I'll be on a retreat - woohoo!

A few plans for the rest of the week: I feel like I'm in a bit of a rut. It's the same thing over and over and over, my own personal Ground Hog Day.

Here is picture I am sharing...

The price of daffodils came down! I have 2 bunches on my dining table right now!

Check out other daybooks at The Simple Woman's Daybook.

daybook 03.15.11

FOR TODAY - Tuesday March 15

Outside my window... the blinds are down, but I'm sure it's dark.

I am thinking... nothing... really. I've been thinking about what I'm thinking about for the past 10 minutes and I've got... nothing.

I am thankful for... OCP. It's something Grom and I have going. We aren't allowed to talk about it, but it's great.

From the learning rooms... Grom has a week of independent study next week. I need to talk to him about what he'd like to focus on.

From the kitchen... I made "Chicken and Rice" for a couple of families at church tonight. It took f.o.r.e.v.e.r to cook and then it was just mediocre. Bummer. The peach crisp was tasty though.

I am wearing... grey sweatpants and an orange long sleeved t

I am creating... I'm knitting washcloths again.

I am going... ehhh.

I am reading... I finished "Crazy Love" and am still working through "Radical" and "Life from Scratch". I have a Sister Chicks novel waiting in the wings.

I am hoping... ehhh.

Around the house... I need to go clean my room.

One of my favorite things... cuddling on the couch with Grom and playing iPad games.

Vocabulary word of the week:

peachy: really good

I made a peach crisp tonight that was really peachy.

A few plans for the rest of the week: all the normal stuff and probably a few surprises.

Here is picture I am sharing... I'm not sure what they call these things. I call them stripes. Grom says that's not right. He earns them when he shows proficiency in a move or something. He's so proud when he gets a new one.

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Daybook 2.28.11

FOR TODAY - Monday February 28, 2011

Outside my window... I see the white Christmas lights we use as year round outdoor lights. They remind me of parties.

I am thinking... about nutrition. I had a meeting at Grom's school tonight about nutrition and I'm still a bit worked up about it. They want to emphasis fresh fruits and vegetables. Great! But to tell my kid that he shouldn't bring something I packed in his lunch... ridiculous. PRETZELS? Some of it is real (she seriously called pretzels [11o cal/serving with 1 gm of fat and 180 mg salt] a sometimes and not at school food), and some of it is the kids misinterpreting what they are teaching. I'm teaching Grom, "Thanks for the input - I'll talk about it with my mom". sheesh.

I am thankful for... for other parents who are like-minded about spoke up about nutrition. Some more eloquently than me. If I hear, "I'm sorry you feel bad" one more time...

From the learning rooms... solar system and sight words.

From the kitchen... food. Mostly nutritious.

I am wearing... flip flops, grey/brown jeans, peachy pink tee, ponytail (I have to do something about my hair).

I am creating... I just finished a project for church - photo collages. Now I pray they print out well.

I am going... to pray with other moms from Grom's school tomorrow morning. We did it last week, soon it will be habit.

I am reading... "Why We Buy" by Paco Underhill (audiobook), "Radical" by David Platt and "Life from Scratch" by Melissa Ford.

I am hoping... Grom doesn't have any cavities.

Around the house... new pillows for the couches in our dining room. They are pretty.

One of my favorite things... doing sight words in the car with Grom. We have card sets. If he knows the word he reads it. If he doesn't know the word, he spells it. I say the word and then use it in a silly sentence. Then, he says the word, spells it and uses it in another silly sentence.

Vocabulary word of the week:
ebullient - overflowing with enthusiasm or excitement.
My friend Erika has an ebullient personality, she could get people to clean toilets with her and think it was fun.

A few plans for the rest of the week: go here, go there, go everywhere.

Here is picture for thought I am sharing...

Grom's BuddE finally turned 6!

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Daybook 02.22.11

FOR TODAY - Tuesday 22/2=11 (I see math everywhere)

Outside my window... it's dark.

I am thinking... about busyness, plans and disappointment. oh... and maturity (to deal with disappointment)

I am thankful for... sleep.

From the learning rooms... nothing terribly interesting. Math has been the most fun recently.

From the kitchen... chocolate croissants. Impressed? Trader Joe's is the greatest. From the freezer - thaw overnight - bake - voila! C'est manifique!

I am wearing... black pants, orange slippers, red long sleeved tee and a tan ruffly tee on top

I am creating... I still have a few projects left from my President's Weekend Organizing Extravaganza. When those are done... watch out.

I am going... to be watching a lot of volleyball. Gogo made the team.

I am reading... "After the Leaves Fall" by Nicole Baart, "Why We Buy" by Paco Underhill (audiobook) and "Radical" by David Platt... all very different books.

I am hoping... I can stop soaking my foot. Every day... twice a day... it's boring.

I am hearing... TV

Around the house... my studio is super clean and organized. I can't wait to be creative.

One of my favorite things... how many favorite things should a girl have? I feel like I keep repeating myself on this one. This week... I'll say decaf coffee... again.

Vocabulary word of the week:
churlish - rude. boorish. ill-mannered.
It was very churlish of you to throw your chocolate at me.

A few plans for the rest of the week: volleyball, buddies, Kid's Club, karate, gymnastics, volleyball, organizing, decluttering, volleyball, a care team meeting, an anticipated birthday party with BOWLING, maybe the Melodrama, and more

Here is picture for thought I am sharing... a shot Grom got from the car on the way to school.
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Daybook February 14, 2011

FOR TODAY Monday Februay 14, 2011

Outside my window... dark and rainy. It was surprisingly February-like weather. I was caught completely off guard.

I am thinking... about ways to get more vegetables in my diet.

I am thankful for... cupcakes. We had a fundraiser for a dear missionary friend this last weekend. We made way more than I expected. The cupcakes were amazing.

From the learning rooms... we're all about sight words right now. I made some card sets. We keep them in the card. Grom drills them whenever we get in to go somewhere. He's doing great.

From the kitchen... Surferman made dinner tonight! 3 cheers for Surferman! Lasagna, salad and garlic bread - yum!

I am wearing... black jeans, dark raspberry printed long sleeved tees, flip flops and a toe bandage.

I am creating... I just heard that my quilt is done. I'm hoping to pick it up this week. And my sewing machine is ready to pick up. Nothing's stopping me now.

I am going... to get more sleep. Maybe it will help my attitude.

I am reading... Radical by David Platt.

I am hoping... the rose Surferman gave me today for Valentine's Day lasts a really long time. It's orange and sitting on my desk at church. smile.

I am hearing... the sound of tires on wet highway. It must be raining right now.

Around the house... still looking for a bench or something for our entry hall and a rug.

One of my favorite things... family dinner. Each week, my parents cook dinner for my sister and me and our family. It's nice to see them and spend time together regularly.

Vocabulary word of the week:
conniption - a fit of extreme anger or excitement.
Used in a sentence: If I thought that having a conniption would help our internet problems, I'd have one right now.

A few plans for the rest of the week: In addition to all the usual stuff. Grom started karate. Surferman's parents are leaving town this week, so we're having one last meal with them and Surferman's sister and family. And we working on some plans for the weekend. It's looking like either San Francisco or Santa Barbara/Solvang... if I can arrange the time away.

Here is picture for thought I am sharing...Cupcakes!

How you can be praying for me and mine... Surferman needs work. Grom got into a patch of poison oak and I'm hoping it doesn't cause him to break out. Gogo is practicing to tryout for the Volleyball team. Me... I need refreshment.

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daybook 02.07.2011

FOR TODAY
Outside my window... I'm in the gallery at Grom's gymnastics class. I can see out a back door to the parking lot. It's that beautiful time of afternoon when the sun is starting to go down. Today was a beautiful day.

I am thinking... about the things that I want to be different in my life. Some I can do something about, some I can't and some just require prayer.

I am thankful for... God's faithfulness and constancy (isn't constancy a great word?).

From the learning rooms... one almost murdered child. Anyone want to come over and get Grom to write his name on his work samples? It's a huge ordeal e v e r y time.

From the kitchen... leftover pasta... (sarcastic yum). It's another one of those busy evenings and I really am glad to have something in easy from the freezer.

I am wearing... black capris, sparkly red tee, and flip flops

I am creating... I took a quilt top to be quilted last week! It's quite possibly the first quilt I'll finish since Grom was born. It's beautiful. I'll post photos when it's done. I have another quilt mostly done. It's rather modern (read trendy) fabrics. If I don't get it done soon, it's going to look dated. More motivation to get my studio under control.

I am going... to get an ingrown toenail fixed on Friday. I expect it's going to hurt quite a bit, but it will be so nice to be able to wear all of my shoes again.

I am reading... Sisterchicks on the Loose by Robin Jones Gunn. I think I've found another series. (Stacey, I'll pass it on when I'm done. It's from the library).

I am hoping... to get a date night with Surferman soon. We've had a 17 year old living in our home since September and haven't used him for some free Gromsitting.

I am hearing... hollering coaches and gossiping moms.

Around the house... I'm reading and processing our mail everyday. Trying to take care of business. It's easy to let it slip.

One of my favorite things... a crisp juicy apple. I've had some really good ones lately.

Vocabulary word of the week:

blithe (adj.) - joyous, merry, or gay in disposition; glad; cheerful: without thought or regard; carefree; heedless:

Used in a sentence: She moved blithely through her day, no problems could stop her.

A few plans for the rest of the week: Tomorrow is Gogo's last home soccer game. His team didn't do well so post season isn't an issue. Past that it's all the usual stuff. Well.. maybe that date night???

Here is picture for thought I am sharing...How you can be praying for me and mine... that we would pray together more.

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