A post that always makes me feel very, very happy.
Enjoying…
Summer in our driveway.
It started late yesterday afternoon when I followed the kids outside to watch them do their summer thing. An hour later, there was a circle of beach chairs, a huddle of neighbors and the beginning of what turned out to be an all night summer celebration. Happy kids with dirty feet, bikes tipped over, sidewalk chalk scattered everywhere, and a “yes” for every request. Another popsicle? Yes. You want to get the hose out and wash your My Little Ponies? Yes. You want to sleep in your bathing suit? Absolutely. You want to stay up for as long as your eyes stay open? Knock yourself out.
Tadpole hunts.
After a tremendous amount of rain, we have our own backyard swamp right now, home to hundreds of tadpoles. We go on daily hunts, housing our amphibian friends in a small tank for a few hours before releasing them at night and starting over the next day.
The best tadpole names have been repurposed each day–like Harabella and Clarey and Loveheart and Taddy. And then Brett named one Burp.
If you want to know anything about frog life cycles now, Lainey’s your girl.
Walking Stick Friend.
Speaking of nature, we found a walking stick bug the other day and added him to the fairy garden.
I checked today, and he’s still in the exact same spot holding the exact same position which means, I think, that he has actually transcended into the world of fairies.
Zoolander.
It has been brought to my attention that Dash does the Zoolander face quite well. Browsing pictures today, I found confirmation.
…and then there’s….
Walking through the hallway and stumbling upon this scene.
and Popsicles for Babies.
They’re sugar free. And also they’re rubber.
…and smiling every time I pick This Glass to Drink From.
…evidence for the fact that souvenirs from special places–be it a shot glass or a tiny spoon or even one of those awful My Grandma Went to Vegas and All She Bought Me Was This Lousy T-Shirt shirts–will make you smile later. Okay, skip the t-shirt. Find a rock shop. But bring something home from every trip so that you can hold a memory in your hand. Today when I was drinking my water, I was standing barefoot at Mission Point on Mackinac Island, watching my girls throw rocks in front of those pretty yellow flowers.
There’s the fact that My Living Room Looks Like This.
Every single day this summer. Actually, this is a really good day.
And This.
Sometimes when I’m holding him and all baby talkin’ and lost in his super power trance, Brett will ask me, “so what do you think? A son, huh? And you never saw yourself with a boy.” And all I can do is smile all goofy and say something that doesn’t make any sense at all. But it means something like “I know. It’s crazy. I love him so much.”
And finally,
Babies in Towels.
Specifically this foxy little towel because it was made by my ubertalented friend. And I keep meaning to mention her talents because they need to be shared. On the three pegs in our bathroom hang three special quilted towels, one handmade for each of our kids. And they always make me smile.
If you feel inclined to share in the comments, do tell what you’re enjoying for the following…
What I’m listening to: Keep Your Heart Young and Rjd2 and Johnny Cash overload lately
What I’m reading: The Perks of Being a Wildflower, Momma Love (book of exquisite photojournalism and stories that landed in my mailbox yesterday) and Peter Rabbit’s Giant Storybook for the kids
Something I splurged on: new L’oved Baby sleepers for Dash
Something that was free: hot tea in a friend’s kitchen yesterday
Something I’m looking forward to: sunset plans this weekend
hat I’m listening to: Let her go by Passenger
What I’m reading: Madness by Marya Hornbacher, for the 10000th time.
Something I splurged on: pink eye drops for my dog. yup.
Something that was free: four margaritas in the evening last Monday. My old friend Jackie treated me. Yes, Four. (see pink eye: above.)
Something I’m looking forward to: climbing in Leavenworth this weekend, sleeping outside and beers at icicle brewery!
Beautiful thoughts as always :). Dash looks beautiful and big. Thanks so much for posting your messy room. Makes me feel normal and reassured!
Oh I so love this post. I’m enjoying the last few weeks of incubating this baby.
Forgot:
What I’m listening to: the pitter patter of rain
What I’m reading: The Mountains Echoed – Khalil Gibran
Something I splurged on: Veggie lomein
Something that was free:library books
Something I’m looking forward to: sunflower blooms!
What I’m listening to: The Staves, In the Morning w/ Keaton Henson
What I’m reading: Instant Mom by Nia Vardalos
Something I splurged on: New makeup to prepare for my husband returning from Afghanistan in two days!
Something that was free: Pizza tonight at a sprinkler party for our toddlers at a friend’s house.
Something I’m looking forward to: My husband’s face when he sees our two year old he hasn’t seen in 6 months! Oh, and her face too. 🙂
What I’m listening to: “You Set Me free” by Angie Miller, and Here comes the Sun (unashamedly off the old Parent Trap Soundtrack
What I’m reading: Nanny Diaries-summer guilty pleasure, and As Always, Julia Letters from Julia Child
Something I splurged on: an elephant necklace that reminds me of last summer in Kenya
Something that was free: Ethiopian coffee from the family I work for
Something I’m looking forward to: a “no planned agenda” camping trip this weekend
This comment has been removed by the author.
I just simply adore your kids!
What I’m listening to: Otis Redding
What I’m reading: Bloom by (eh hem) the fabulous Kelle Hampton and Hello in There (prep for our 4 yr old princess on who’s coming in about 6 months!)
Something I splurged on: a lovely new summer dress.
Something that was free: my ice cream treat tonight.
Something I’m looking forward to: more beach time and the smell of autumn.
Is it JUST your living room? My whole house looks like that daily. I can clean and have the kids do the 5-minute tidy up before bed and it only takes them 15 minutes to trash it the next morning. I’m looking forward to school beginning and getting back into a routine.
what I’m listening to: Keena Turner West
What I’m reading: a trashy Harlequin Blaze book –it helps to escape the mess in the house
a splurge: UnderArmour outfits for the two boys
free: Krisipy Kreme doughnuts at the hotel
looking forward to:a weekend trip to Nashville with my mom and two girls
We have the I’m a big Sister book and I used to read it all the time. Such a sweet moment. 🙂
What I’m listening to: Otis Redding
What I’m reading: Bloom by (eh hem) the fabulous Kelle Hampton and Hello in There (prep for our 4 yr old princess on who’s coming in about 6 months!)
Something I splurged on: a lovely new summer dress.
Something that was free: my ice cream treat tonight.
Something I’m looking forward to: more beach time and the smell of autumn.
Dash, Lainy, and Nella are all soooo cute. The pix of Nella feeding her baby sitting next to Dash is just darling. So sweet!!
The Popsicle teether is SO. CUTE.
These “Enjoying” posts are often some of my favorites.
What I’m listening to: the Michael Buble Pandora station! It mixes with frequent Frank Sinatra and I can’t get enough of it.
What I’m reading: The Memory Keepers Daughter. I have wanted to read it for a long time and am SO GLAD I picked it up at the library. I’m halfway through and it’s the best book I’ve read in a while.
Something I splurged on: Pillows!
Something that was free: The library book. More people should still go to the library!
Something I’m looking forward to: Having a Panera breakfast with my mom tomorrow.
You are such a good mom. The fairy garden is such a cute idea! I think I would like to make one with my little girl.
What I’m Listening To: Nina Simone and Charles Aznavour.
What I’m reading: Report to Greco by Nikos Kazantzakis
Something I splurged on: 8 new Vera Bradley bags!
Something that was free: Walking my little dog in the park.
Something I’m looking forward to: Returning to Paris one day.
Kelle I just love your blog! I am incredibly inspired by your passion, and love, and amazing mothering. Thanks for letting us all into your lives 🙂
What I’m Listening To: My husband reading a book to our son.
What I’m reading: crochet patterns, sewing patterns, and occasionally I’ll pick up a book
Something I splurged on: Fabric for Christmas presents
Something that was free: A McDonalds iced coffee frappe and a 4 hour conversation with a good friend.
Something I’m looking forward to:visiting with my family in the fall after 9 months away
You are reading one of my all time favourite books. It travels with me on every trip. Always at the bottom on my duffle bag in case I am in need of something to take me away.
Kelle I just love my downtime with a coffee and your blog!
It’s winter here in Sydney, Australia so while we are living in opposite seasons, capturing the gold we are given daily is just as sweet!
hat I’m listening to: U2 ‘Beautiful Day’ its true even in the cold and rain!
What I’m reading: Just finished ‘The Rosie Project’
Something I splurged on: gorgeous summer clothes from Tea in anticipation of a glorious summer!
Something free: the blessing of being able to help out some of my lovely friends with exactly what was needed when they needed it.
Something I’m looking forward to: Our third baby, arriving 12 weeks from today! A gorgeous girl!
I had a daughter first, and when my son was born I was in abject shock for at least a few weeks. I hadn’t realized how unprepared I was to have a son, how fully I’d assumed I’d just have girls. And, oh my, how I worship him … and that picture of Nella and her brother – wow! Divine. xox
As a special education teacher, I have the summer to find myself again and focus on me.
What I’m listening to: That new Miley Cyrus song that is crazypants.
What I’m reading: Far From the Tree: Parents, Children and the Search for Identity
Something I splurged on: Boxed wine from Target (don’t judge).
Something that was free: Advice from my amazing friends.
Something I’m looking forward to: Going to Arkansas in August because it is family time and brings back fantastic memories of tea parties with my Grandma.
Happy Summer!
oh, I love ‘yes’ days. I don’t tell the kids it’s a ‘yes’ day, I do it more for myself and it’s just so much fun.
Where did you find that adorable popsicle teether??? I NEED ONE — too cute!!
What I’m listening to: The hum of our AC, and postal service.
What I’m reading: The information for my LAST…did you see that…LAST grad class. I have no time for fun reading until I’m done, but I have a list of books to read I’ve been adding to for the last 18 months.
Something I splurged on: really cool beach socks for my kids, not really a splurge but I bought a bunch of them to make sure we have no lost lefties.
Something that was free: Laughing out loud at my 1 year old with a chocolate pudding mustache and beard and his big brother telling me “I gonna wuv you to ever and ever”
Something I’m looking forward to: A day with my boys…I love those guys
What I’m listening to: The dryer and Jimmy Kimmel Live on the t.v. at the moment. Not very romantic!
What I’m reading: “Man Up” by Ross Matthews (Ross the Intern from the Tonight Show). The guy is hilarious!
Something I splurged on: “Stuff” for our guest room and bathroom in our not yet built cottage up north… It’s all “in hiding” for a few more months! Later he’ll thank me!
Something that was free: Big sloppy kisses from our Golden Retriever pup who is 5 mos. old
Something I’m looking forward to: Heading up north to Frankfort, MI tomorrow afternoon for a weekend at the lake and a break from this heat!
What I’m listening to: The Civil Wars’ “The One That Got Away”
What I’m reading: Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? (and Other Concerns) – audiobook written and narrated by Mindy Kaling
Something I splurged on: FEED + Target stoneware mixing bowl
Something that was free: Edy’s Frozen Fruit Bar – poolside while coaching swimming
Something I’m looking forward to: playing Bingo with my mom and grandma at the nursing home
What I’m listening to: All I Want by Toad the Wet Sprocket. As well as anything alt rock from the 90s. I’m turning 30 soon and feeling super nostalgic.
What I’m reading: Game of Thrones. The books are so much better than the show.
Something I splurged on: new ankle boots. In the summer. I know.
Something that was free: tickets to a symphony at the Hollywood Bowl, courtesy of my friend/soul sister. I have great friends.
Something I’m looking forward to: A Vegas getaway this weekend with my main squeeze (aka my husband). We’re doing it up right this time, like a coupla grownups. Nice dinner, nice show, maybe a little blackjack. Wish me luck!
What I’m listening to: Blurred Lines by Robyn Thicke – a little party dance each time I hear it!
What I’m reading: Dad is Fat by Jim Gaffigan – hilarious!
Something I splurged on: Beautiful sparkly earrings for me to wear to my daughter’s baptism
Something that was free: Dinner at my parent’s house 🙂
Something I’m looking forward to: my youngest daughter’s baptism this weekend
I love the photo of what you stumbled upon – so cute!
What I’m listening to: I love it, Icona Pop. I sing it when I’m riding my bike
What I’m reading: Uh oh, nothing!
Something I splurged on: a new/old vintage dress
Something that was free: Smiles
Something I’m looking forward to: A fun night on Saturday night!
What I’m listening to: Amanda Palmer Goes Down Under
What I’m reading: Bossypants, Spiritual Midwifery, and Five Silly Monkeys over and over as requested by my blue-eyed babe.
Something I splurged on: A maternity t-shirt to celebrate my second pregnancy! 5 weeks today, baby.
Something that was free: the waffle bowl that held my helping of frozen yogurt this evening.
Something I’m looking forward to: seeing my momma and daddy and siblings and Nan in just ONE WEEK (I haven’t seen them since April and my daughter and I are flying to visit).
Dash is so cute! He looks a lot like you Kelle
Hello Enjoyment!
The summer is certainly lovely, here in the Alps.
What I’m listening to: The sound of the donkeys, waiting for their turn in the circus ring – temporarily parked in my garden.
What I’m reading: A story of mountaineering teaching intimacy and committment (Beyond the Mountain, by Steve House).
Something I splurged on: A hoodie of red & white stripes, and ancient cream lace.
Something that was free: The morning cool air scents drifting down the glacier to my valley.
Something I’m looking forward to: Life going back to normal; the resolution of a trust issue with someone who means the world to me but sometimes tramples me a little in his enthusiasm.
Your post was just delightful Kelle.
Kindest regards from my mountains to your swamp!
Ali
It’s winter here in NZ but the weather has been specially nice this week…
I am listening to: Adele station on Pandora, crazy girlie mix with Ellie Goulding, Amy Winehouse and Colbie Caillat.
I am reading: all sorts of pregnancy related information, until my brain explodes or baby comes. Whatever comes first.
Something I splurged on: full tank of gas and a lovely secondhand dresser for the nursery
Something that was free: confidence-booster Tupperware manager that wants me on her team.
Something I’m looking forward to: painting my old dresser and turning it into a bookshelf. Also, the ultrasound scan that will tell me the gender of this Magic Bean in my belly in two weeks.
Your summer sounds lovely! I can’t wait for ours, with a big baby belly then a beautiful baby! And BTW, Dash really nails the Zoolander.
Love these posts and the Zoolander face made me laugh out loud. We just moved from the Arizona desert to New Zealand and right now the thing I’m looking forward to most is for the weather to warm up so we can explore!
What I’m listening to: Yesterday afternoon it was the neighbor kids singing Coldplay and show tunes on a karaoke machine while I sat in the backyard playing with Ellie. They didn’t know I could hear. HUGE smiles from me, so happy and carefree!
What I’m reading: Just finished Where’d You Go, Bernadette. Currently working on the “First six Weeks of School” and need some beach reads for vacay… in NAPLES!
Something I splurged on: iPhone 5
Something that was free: Outdoor music, every Thursday.
Something I’m looking forward to: Family vacation, less than a month!!!
Hi Kelle,
Just wondered if you could tell me where you got the Popsicle toy for Dash from??
Many thanks,
Bridget
What I’m listening to: My children’s first morning talks and giggles over the monitor
What I’m reading: the hundreds of blog entries I am so behind on
Something I splurged on: our gym membership — because health is just too important
Something that was free: that cuddle in the middle of the night from a three year old who just didnt want to stay asleep
Something I’m looking forward to: not having to cook dinner tomorrow night. So what if we are picking up pizza after going to the gym …!!
What I’m listening to: Pitch Perfect Soundtrak
What I’m reading: Lots and lots of books for Midwife School
Something I splurged on: An amber necklace for me since I just got my wisdom teeth yesterday.
Something that was free: Macroons brought over by a sweet friend (despite the fact that I can’t eat them for a few more days…)
Something I’m looking forward to: Going to see “my babies” in Nashville this weekend.
listening : Sarah maclachlan and the perishers “pills”, Rhianna “stay”
Reading: Stolen-Escape from Syria, Stella books with the girls
splurged: Maxi dress for me
free: beach and dinner at my Dad’s
looking forward to: jury duty
I love this post, as all of your “enjoying” posts. what a fun way to capture the day-to-day.
What I’m listening to: lots of old Geri X albums
What I’m reading: Paris, My Sweet by Amy Thomas
Something I splurged on: fresh local fruit (cherries, strawberries, & raspberries)
Something that was free: a hot day on a boat on the canal
Something I’m looking forward to: trolley tour today! (:
What I’m listening to: The cups song. Addicting..
What I’m reading: A Johnny Carson biography. So I have something to talk about with my 83 year old Mom, who recently read it.
Something I splurged on: my son’s graduation party.
Something that was free: lunch at work compliments of some birthday co-workers.
Something I’m looking forward to: Weekend in Door County!
Ahh! I love reading your blog! This post was especially perfect for me this morning!
What I’m listening to: Bitter Sweet Symphony by The Verve on “Drops of Jupiter Pandora Radio”
What I’m reading: When I Found Your by Catherine Ryan Hyae
Something I splurged on: Bathing Suit for vacation!
Something that was free: Aborable laughs from my friend’s 5 month old!
Something I’m looking forward to: a “family timed” weekend with lots of pictures!
Your spontaneous summer party sounds awesome.
Listeing: John Mark McMillan (always)
Reading: Is God A Moral Monster?
Splurged On: Fantastic Gap sweater vest at GoodWill
Free: Snuggles from my baby in bed this morning
Looking Forward: Zoo on Sunday!
What I’m listening to: Currently really digging Get Lucky by Daft Punk
What I’m reading: Countdown to Lockdown by Mick Foley. This professional wrestler is really a huge teddy bear with a heart of gold and I recommend any of his books, regardless of how you feel about wrestling.
Something I splurged on: p90x – totally worth it
Something that was free: dinner last night, thanks mom!
Something I’m looking forward to: camping with friends and family this weekend
What I’m listening to: Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons which takes me right back to my childhood, playing concert with my sister with hairbrushes as microphones, and arguing who’s going to sing lead on the next song on the 8-track. (This relates to the last question.)
What I’m reading: Love Does by Bob Goff and reading aloud to my son On the Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness by Andrew Peterson.
Something I splurged on: an impromptu trip to the movies yesterday to see Monsters University with my youngest.
Something that was free: sitting around the kitchen table eating breakfast and drinking coffee with my husband and son before starting the day.
Something I’m looking forward to: my (gulp) 50th and my husband’s 52nd birthday next week.
What I’m listening to: REO Speedwagon, Keep on Loving You
What I’m reading: Where We Belong by Emily Giffin
Something I splurged on: dinner & drinks with my bff last night
Something that was free: blueberry muffins i made this week!
Something I’m looking forward to: beach getaway with my man this weekend <3
Listening to: Mixed CD of my favorite Summer songs
Reading: Besides ETST, “The Digital Photography Book, Vol. 1” & “Dexter By Design” by Jeff Lindsay
Splurge: New toy for the puppy
Freebie: Delicious Blueberries from our neighbor
Looking Forward To: Vacation on Lake Champlain, Vermont.
Love this post! Thanks for sharing~
Listening to: birds chirping outside my window
Reading: Showtime by Chloe Kayne, Coming to Term; Uncovering the Truth About MIscarriage by Jon Cohen
A Splurge: Antique briefcase for living room display
A Freebie: Morning bike ride with my 3 year old
Looking Forward to: taking our 3 year old fishing for the first time tomorrow.
What I’m listening to: Safe and Sound by Capital Cities
What I’m reading: Wild cy Cheryl Strayed
Something I splurged on: clothes for family photo session
Something that was free: hugs from my boy-the best
Something I’m looking forward to: the sweet smell of holding a newborn this weekend!
What I’m listening to: Sara Bareilles on Pandora Radio
What I’m reading: the Bible, Book of Matthew (you have to start somewhere)
Something I splurged on: New swimsuit from Popina! thanks for the recommendation.
Something that was free: Overhearing my son praying last night.
Something I’m looking forward to: weekend up north next week.
I love your enjoying the small things posts so much that I started doing them on my own blog awhile back. It helps me to remember the great things in my life when I’m overwhelmed by the every day.
What I’m listening to- Kathie Lee and Hoda
What am I reading- Harry Potter Book 4 (I’m usually a memoir person, but my sister in law has pushed me to try these and I’m hooked)
What I’ve splurged on- Car trip activities for our 13 hour trip this coming weekend,
Something for free- Pool dates with my best friends and our children (well technically it’s only free because I PAID for a pool pass, but you get the drift)
Something I”m looking forward to- Our family vacation to Winter Park/Denver next week. After being laid up with a broken ankle last summer, I’m super pumped to wake up to mountain views next week!!
So there ya go! Dash is so handsome. I can’t believe he’s 5 months already. Time sure flies!
http://www.wolfswinkelfam.blogspot.com
What I’m listening to: The goblin king.
What I’m reading: I’m reading Dracula (because I’m a fall/Halloween junkie, and classics like Drac are always good…kinda like Christmas music. For the little ones, we’re reading Sherlock Holmes – The Blue Carbuncle.
Something I splurged on: A pair of snakeskin printed shoes that go with everything.
Something that was free: Nothing in life is free. Whether you are giving monetarily, or of yourself, everything has a price.
Something I’m looking forward to: My dad getting the package we sent him the other day. It has a picture of him and all three of us girls, and a card with some encouragement for him.
Kelle….
Cool!! Do you “house” those tadpoles until watching them develop frog legs?! Growing up, we drove to some lake. Countless tadpoles and frogs resided there!! Countless!! We would then catch some tadpoles, bring them home, watch legs grow, then drive back to release our frog “friends”!! Ah, memories…. 😉
Confession. I have not seen “Zoolander”. However. I just Google-searched it!! And, I can’t but agree. Dash does have a great “Zoolander” face!! Hee, hee, hee…. ;-o
“Popsicles for Babies. They’re sugar free. And also they’re rubber.”. Crack. Me. Up!! ;-D
“Sometimes when I’m holding him and all baby talkin’ and lost in his super power trance, Brett will ask me, ‘so what do you think? A son, huh? And you never saw yourself with a boy.’ And all I can do is smile all goofy and say something that doesn’t make any sense at all. But it means something like ‘I know. It’s crazy. I love him so much.’.” I love, love, love this story!! 😉
What I’m listening to: Right at this very moment, nothing. It is morning, and not everyone in my house is awake!! But I am always humming some tune!! Does that count? 😉
What I’m reading: “Soul Surfer” by Bethany Hamilton. I am nearly finished!! And, by the way? Hollywood’s film about that incredible true story is much, much, much better!! 😉
Something I splurged on: I cannot remember!! I guess I’m not really much for splurging!! 😉
Something that was free: This pink breast cancer awareness rubber bracelet on my right wrist. Somebody gave it to me years ago. I now wear the wristband for a dear friend. 😉
Something I’m looking forward to: Can one feel both dread and excited anticipation at the same time? Because, Lord willing, provided that I do not cop out–drum roll, please–I’m finally going to show those who I am in close proximity to My Life Story!! Now. Allow me to experience several hundred thousand anxiety attacks…. 😉
Sorry. Long comment!! ;-}
–Raelyn
What I’m listening to: Bach
What I’m reading: I actually printed out and cataloged your entire blog (ETST, and your old one too…) in a pretty binder. Making my way through that for the 2nd time, and gleaning so much more from this reading.
Something I splurged on: I try to purchase every thing you sponsor or promote on your blog! It can get pricey but I’m doing it.
Something that was free: This blog 🙂 and your Instagram 🙂 Thank GOD!
Something I’m looking forward to: Anything to do with you, Lains, Nell, Dash… and my own children too… In fact, I’m going to go read them a chapter from the book! (Your blog binder is the only book they’re permitted til this second reading is through… then it’s on to Harry Potter)
Such sweet pictures and you have a gorgeous home xx
Girl About Chelts
Oh, the summer nights….
When our girls were little, we had 17 kids in the cul-de-sac. It was magical. Nights were beach chairs for the adults, tag, popsicles, raiding someone’s fridge in the garage, flashlights, dance moves, you name it, the kids were free.
Days were swapping kids, trips to the pool, the ice cream man, staged food fights,lunch under a tent on the front lawn, more dance shows, barbies and crafts. I loved every minute. I learned a good dinner for kids could be a bowl of cereal, with a vitamin. It was a life saver.
Once again, thank you for bringing back the memories!
xo
lynn
I love your blog, but I never comment. This week I learned that I have to put my favorite dog ever to sleep and I;ve been having a really hard time, its nice to read your words and smile again…
What I am listening to: Oldies, they make me happy
What I am reading: Grave Sight-Charlaine Harris
What I splurged on: Tons of tests on my dog to make sure I am making the right decision.
Something that was free: Taking lots of pictures of my kids sliding down the slip and slide with our chicken.
Something that I am looking forward to: Peace of mind
Thanks again 🙂
What I’m listening to: Co-workers murmering and keyboards being typed on (at work)
What I’m reading: Inferno by Dan Brown
Something I splurged on: Lately, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle party gear for my son’s upcoming birthday party.
Something that was free: Laughter with my oldest and husband last night watching a movie.
Something I’m looking forward to: taking my kids to see a movie this weekend just us.
Have a wonderful rest of the summer Kelly.
I’m reading Love Does by Bob Goff…so so good. And Satisfy My Thirsty Soul by Linda Dillow…just wonderful.
Looking forward to going to work with my honey next week. He commutes to DC for half of every week and next week the girls and I are tagging along:)
Burp the tadpole – so cute! I’m loving our sunny summer weekends spent with friends and family outside. In the last few weeks we’ve had so many chances to hang out with other families with young kids, which has been a blast for our little guy. More popsicles? Heck yeah!
What I’m listening to: “Love Somebody” by Maroon 5, on repeat, because yes, he is totally singing to me.
What I’m reading: Wild by Cheryl Strayed, loving it, highly recommended!
Something I splurged on: Iced coffee every morning this week. And a grill for my honey!
Something that was free: Catching up on a guilty pleasure, The Bachelorette, on Hulu.
Something I’m looking forward to: Another weekend full of fun, my family reunion on Sunday.
I am listening to: CBC Radio 2 – alternative adult stream,
I am reading: An Irish Country Doctor by Patrick Taylor (very cute, summer read)
I recently splurged on: a second-hand Nikon camera! (Wheeee!)
Something that was free: a big mason jar of marinated oyster mushrooms made by my best friend’s husband-who happens to be a chef,
I am looking forward to: my weekend starting tonight as we head off to a cottage in Quebec with good friends!
What I’m listening to: Christmas music. It’s that time of year !
What I’m reading: Blink, Simple Eating, and Duggars: A Love That Multiplies
Something I splurged on: a pile of new scentsy bars
Something that was free: kisses from Lily this morning. Priceless.
Something I’m looking forward to: a small family reunion at the end of the month in Astoria
love Dash’s towel !!
xo
Listening to Blurred Lines by Robin Thicke. Every chance I get!!
Reading The Last Whisper in the Dark by Tom Piccirilli, a good mob mystery/suspense
Splurged on a bunch of new clothes at my favorite store today because it’s my birthday!!
Something that was free, my awesome night with my man a few nights ago, music, dinner, wine, many good laughs.
Looking forward to my mom getting married tomorrow!! She’s 60 and getting married and it’s awesome!!
Adorable photos….especially Brett’s son reading to Nella… and the one of you and Dash.
xo
Your thoughts about holding Dash – about finally having a boy – mirror mine about my daughter. My husband’s family seemed to only make boys; out of the grandkids on that side of the family, my daughter is the only girl. My husband has 5 siblings; only one sister. So when we found out that our Delilah was a girl, we were in shock, and I still have moments watching the spunky and fierce child that she has become where my heart catches and I think *I have a girl!*
Anyway. I know the feeling :-). It’s a wonderful one.
I also forgot 🙂
What I’m listening to: Podcasts, at this moment, The Drabblecast.
What I’m reading: Lorna Doone; Oh, Crap! Potty Training; Dracula
Something I splurged on: nothing, recently
Something that was free: giggling with my closest work friend over coffee yesterday
Something I’m looking forward to: taking my kids and dogs for a walk tonight
This post make me happy too, I start thinking about the upcoming weekend and all of the fun I will have with my kiddo. Great post!
What I’m listening to: I love it. Icona Pop
What I’m reading: Return to Summerhouse, my baby is really getting into this one with me!
Something I splurged on: Popina Bathing Suit, Jantzen Vamp in Red
Something that was free: A whole mouthful of whip cream at my friend’s house just for dropping by.
Something I’m looking forward to: Lake Havasu City vacation in just two weeks!
This post makes me happy too, I started thinking about all of the fun things I will do with my kiddo this weekend.
Listening to: “I love it.” Icona Pop
Reading: Return to the summerhouse, my baby is really getting into this one with me.
Splurg:Popina Bathing Suit, Jantzen Vamp in red
Free: A whole mouthful of whipped cream at a friends house just for dropping by.
Looking forward to: Lake Havasu City vacation in just two weeks!
Enjoying Summer!
What I’m listening to: Crystal Bowersox. Specifically Everything Falls Into Place. I’m very possibly addicted to that song. If tapes still existed, I’d wear it out soon. Heh.
What I’m reading: I just finished Sharp Objects by Gillain Flynn. I think my next book will be re-reading The Bloggesses book.
Something I splurged on: Ummm my girl is nine today, so I just purchased the fancy cupcakes for her bday dinner…even though I’ll be buying a huge cake for her party on Saturday.
Something that was free: my coffee from Starbucks today! As was the person behind me, as I paid for theirs since someone ahead paid for mine.
Something I’m looking forward to: My parents (mom & Step-dad)25th anniversary, re-newing of vows in a month.
Love Dash’s rubber popsicle and his Zoolander look.
I am a newby to satellite radio, so I’ve been listening to that in my car.
Just today finished A Stolen Life by Jaycee Dugard. Not sure what I’ll read next. I have several thrift store books to choose from.
I splurged on a hotel room in Monterey, CA, but not by choice. Can you believe $264 for a TraveLodge room? (Both the hotels we wanted to stay in were already booked.)
Something that was free: Hmmm. Well, I was given a sample of a white nectarine at the farmers market this morning.
I’m looking forward to Nordstrom’s Anniversary sale starting tomorrow, although didn’t see anything I wanted when I went online during “early access” time. Also looking forward to the trip to Monterey next month.
I know. I love drinking coffee from my “I heart Florida” mug or “Virginia is for lovers” mug. Bring home souvenirs. Good reminders of good times.
girl that baby boy looks JUST like you!!! We are underwater too in the GGE. Happy Summer.
What I’m listening to: does Lego Legends of Chima count?
What I’m reading: Cold Tangerines by Shauna Niequist
Something I splurged on: An ottoman for Isla’s nursery – I was tired of nursing without one
Something that was free: our afternoon at the beach
Something I’m looking forward to: going to a hot air balloon festival this weekend
OH. MY. GOSH. The zoolander face? Yes! Love it. Beautiful, beautiful, beautiful, beautiful boy. (sung in my best John Lennon voice)
Beautifully said, as always. I have 3 beautiful daughters, whom I love with all of my heart. My fourth child, my son, has a sweet spot reserved just for him.. What a precious pf of you and your son.
Oh Kelle, the picture of you holding Dash is so beautiful, I can’t handle it!
What I’m listening to: lots of Mumford, Edward Sharpe, and Old Crowe Medicine Show (going to see them all next month)
What I’m Reading: Daring Greatly by Brene Brown
Something I splurged on: New Bermuda shorts from Banana Republic
Something that was free: spent the last four days at a friend’s cottage – free mini-vacation!
Something I’m Looking Forward to: Going home to see family in August
What I’m listening to: On top of the world by Imagine Dragons
What I’m reading: Speaking from among the bones by Alan Bradley
Something I splurged on: a Michael Kors bag and new family room furniture
Something that was free: surprise fresh gladiolas on my desk from a sweet co-worker
Something I’m looking forward to: fireworks and champagne tomorrow night with my best guy, my husband
Love the glass you are using in the picture. Grew up in the Upper Peninsula and would love to have that glass – where did you get it? Heading to MI next week for 10 days and so excited! We will be spending a day on Mackinac:)
The Zoolander face is awesome!
What I’m listening to: Soft breathing from the newborn on my chest
What I’m reading: The Tao of Pooh
Something I splurged on: special blanket for my pumpkin
Something that was free: Hugs from a sweet girl named Kate
Something I’m looking forward to: A good morning kiss from my husband who is at the fire station tonight
What I’m listening to: My sweet biggest boy trying to teach my sweet youngest boy new words. (I used to take offense a bit at how you went on and on and on and on about how amazing girls were – SO glad you can now understand how special little boys are 🙂
What I’m reading: Crow Lake by Mary Lawson.
Something I splurged on: A Volcom back pack for my oldest, my 3 and a half year old who will be starting JK in September…where oh where did this time go?
Something that was free: the beautiful flowers from the garden in our yard that bring fragrance and much happiness to all the rooms in our home!
Something I’m looking forward to: The weekend and some outdoor wilderness adventures with my beautiful boys at our cottage – nothing paints our family canvas like weekends at the cottage (it’s our Isle of Capri x10!) 🙂
Much MUCH love!!!
What I’m listening to: It’s Time by Imagine Dragons
What I’m reading: Love & Logic-The Early Years
Something I splurged on: Super cute car air fresheners from Bath & Body Works. A pink elephant filled with Peach Bellini make me happy!
Something that was free: the amazing hug I got from my coworker.
Something I’m looking forward to: Visiting the Farmer’s Market in the morning.
I love, love, love the MI glass! May I ask where you got it? We just returned home from 2 1/2 weeks there (1 a week in Cadillac, then time down south with family) and I’d love to get one for my husband.
What I am listening to: the replay odf the Tour de France, my husband watches it every night. Music wise, right now I’m partial to Allison Krauss
What I am reading: The Aviator’s Wife
Splurge: just ordered TWO pair of jeans. After a multi year struggle to find the perfect jeans, I stumbled upon them on a clearance rack. Seems they are discontinuing the style so I just ordered two more.
Freebie: good blog reading
Looking forward to: going to visit my kids tomorrow
Favorite pic from this issue of your blog: Nella feeding her baby next to Dash.
Listening to: Madonna…Crazy For You (13 going on 30 is playing on Netflix 🙂
Reading: The Secret Lives of Dresses (long, but light), and Night (very quick read, but oh so heavy…concentration camp survivor…ugh!)
Splurge: extra school supplies for the boys…they like surprises like that 🙂
Free: a galvanized basin a lady gave me at her yard sale!
Looking forward to: Nora turns THREE next Thursday!! I let her pick out napkins for her party. She chose colorful ones with large print that said HAPPY BIRTHDAY. She touched the letters and said, “ABC.” So proud of her 🙂
Blue Steel made me giggle…or was it Magnum? And Nella looks like a little girl, less of a baby…not sure how I feel about that 😉
I just recently read The Perks of Being a Wallflower too. Have you seen the movie? I loved it SO much for about 100 reasons but also it was kinda great to time travel back to the teenage years that took place in the 90’s like mine did. No mobiles, no internet, just life. This is the first time EVER that I loved the movie a little more than the book. Maybe it’s because the movie was also directed by the author of the book so it really was his story come to life through his eyes.
What I’m listening to: Lately? Pandora’s Disney movies channel – it’s the only thing the kids will go for in the car. And I kinda look forward to the “Tangled” songs.
What I’m reading: The 2nd book of the Sookie Stackhouse series — love me some True Blood. The kids are hooked on “Tarzan” these days.
Something I splurged on: $80 worth of fresh fruits and veggies this week for smoothies! Oy! It’s expensive to eat healthy stuff.
Something that was free: Sweet hugs from a certain 3 year old.
Something I’m looking forward to: Friday! – I took a day off to hang with the kiddies.
What I’m listening to: Little Bear on Nick Jr.
What I’m reading: The Pigman and daily newspapers
Something I splurged on: new down comforter for the master bedroom
Something that was free: tomatoes from my neighbor’s garden
Something I’m looking forward to: “Junkin'” in NC on Saturday with my family.
I think you’ve mentioned it before, but where is Nella’s Abraham Lincoln shirt from? It’s just darling.
Listening to: The Great Gatsby Soundtrack. My kids love grooving to “A little party never killed nobody”
Reading: Anna Karenina and Gwyneth Paltrow’s “It’s all good”
Splurged on: Some gorgeous Tea Collection clothes for Mr 7 (thanks for bringing them to my attention, Kelle!)
Something free: Going to the theatre last night with Mr 4 as guests of his BFF and her Mum. A fav book come to life- So much fun! “Room on the broom” by Julie Donaldson (Author of The Gruffalo).
Looking forward to: a long weekend here in the NT! And a bit of quasi-camping (all the fun of swimming under waterfalls, campfires & s’mores but home in time to shower & sleep in our own comfy beds!!
All the best to you & yours,
Sarah
stayathometerritory.blogspot.com
What I’m listening to: a baseball game. like last night and tomorrow night.
What I’m reading: Debbie Macomber’s Cedar Cove series. And Wind in the Willows.
Something I splurged on: Airplane tickets to see my parents with just my youngest.
Something that was free: A glass of red wine on my friend’s deck last night watching the sun set and the children play.
Something I’m looking forward to: doing my first 5K this weekend. Actually, finishing it is what I am looking forward to!
This is amazing, Liz! It’s perfectly accurate as well as being really well written. The one thing I would say is that including the owl names would be good. I’ll list them here from top to bottom and left to right for those who are interested: ‘Liddle flame’ #57, ‘Starstruck’ #81, ‘Potty Patrick’ #52, ‘No nonsense’ #28, ‘Flat Freddie’ #82. Also, I’m at Abbotsford Convent Makers’ Market on the 3rd Sunday every month. Other market dates are kept up to date on my website.
You can follow this link and get more huge funny and interesting yo mama jokes
yo-mamas-so-cross-eyed
The picture of Nella and her big brother is wonderful!
The picture of Nella and her big brother is wonderful!
Just wanted to say that this post has changed my summer in a big way. The idea of simply saying “yes,” of not having to monitor or arbitrate is SUCH a valuable revelation for me! I love it! I’ve been telling all of my parenting friends. What harm does it do to stay up til 10 or have Sunday waffles on a Tuesday? None. It’s actually easier, and everyone enjoys the novelty and the peace. Thank you so much for voicing this simple yet elegant and kind concept. I receive it with glee and relief!
The picture of Nella and her big brother is wonderful! So nice pictures, so good your blog.
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