Summer Bucket list: Lincoln Park Zoo

Lincoln Park Zoo, First Day of Summer Bucket List 2015 > > My younger son graduated kindergarten, we actually call it the end of year celebration ceremony (we believe you don't "graduate" until high school and then college. We want to hold school standards in a high regard, and if the kids keep having these "graduation ceremonies" then they will start to lose their value. (Their 8th grade graduations will be recognized with a small family dinner at a restaurant of their choice.) 

Younger sons first day of summer starts this Monday, or my older son still has one additional week of school. I asked my younger son what he wants to do on his first day of summer, he said let's go to culvers for ice cream. I said are you sure there isn't more you want to do, we have a whole day of fun we can have, so he said let's go to the zoo. 




And so we did, on Monday we hit the zoo first thing in the morning with our popcorn made it home. We saw the animals that he wanted to see and that he picked. Baby girl did not mind at all her brother making all the decisions that day. Then we drove straight to culvers and thankfully since it's about 30 minutes from the zoo both the kids took a nap in the car on the way there. 

> > It was an all fun day! > > 

Tuesday we were bums, and got started on Father's Day gifts (which is coming up this Sunday) and I finished my sanding and painting of frames. Its gonna be a rainy week to boot. 

I had looked up some ideas on Pinterest and questions to ask the kid regarding their dad. And I knew I would make the handmade card for him. That night of making Father's Day cards, baby girl told her dad she's going to make him a card with the sun on it. Well that was not on our list, so of course we added that to the list and made her card the next day.

Make Mistakes, breathe, reflect and Laugh.Out.Loud


Lincoln Park Zoo, First Day of Summer Bucket List 2015

Summer Bucket List: New Parks, Bowen Park Waukegan Il. Week 7 2015

Summer - week 7 > > After visiting Il. Beach state park, we made a pit stop at Bowen Park in Waukegan. We spent the entire day collecting rocks, playing in the water, snacking and playing. It was empty, with only a few other people on the beach. We like walking thru the nature center to access the beach, quiet, natural, and beautiful. > > As for the park, its off route 137 and It.Is.Huge!!! There is a map of all the activities, including this spinning cage, a 2-story climbing spider web, sprinkler, and so much more. My daughter loved the 2-stories to climb up for the slides. They are fast and fun. > > Monkey bars, surfboard swings, really so much more. The kids had a blast!! 

Make Mistakes, breathe, reflect and Laugh.Out.Loud.

Ah-mazing Tomato Soup made from our Chicago Garden Tomatoes

Ah-mazingly Delicious Tomatoe Soup because our Tomatoes are Coming in. I was sad a month ago when it seemed we'd have none! However my cherry tomatoes and the large yellow and black ones are all ripening. A mix of these variety gives the soup a delicious taste. Bon Apetit! 

Tomato Soup Ingredients

2 Tbs. extra-virgin olive oil 

1 Tbs. unsalted butter 

1 large white onion, finely chopped 

1 large clove garlic, smashed and peeled 

2 Tbs. all-purpose flour 

3 cups lower-salt chicken broth 

28-oz. can whole peeled plum tomatoes, puréed (include the juice) **

1-1/2 tsp. sugar 

1 sprig fresh thyme 

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper 

3 Tbs. thinly sliced fresh basil, chives, or dill, or a mixture of all three (omit if using one of the garnishes below) 

Tip: If you don;t have an immersion blender (get one, because otherwise you have to) be sure to purée in small batches and crack the blender lid slightly (or remove the center cap from the lid). Steam can build up once you start blending, and if the lid is on tight or the blender is overfilled, it will spray hot soup all over you and your kitchen. For protection, cover the top with a dishtowel while puréeing. 

**We used our FRESH Tomatoes from the garden. A wide variety this year too.
 


In a nonreactive 5- to 6-quart Dutch oven, heat the oil and butter over medium-low heat until the butter melts. Add the onion and garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until soft but not browned, about 8 minutes. Add the flour and stir to coat the onion and garlic. > > Add the broth, tomatoes, sugar, thyme, and 1/4 tsp. each salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat while stirring the mixture to make sure that the flour is not sticking to the bottom of the pan. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 40 minutes. 

Discard the thyme sprig. Let cool briefly and then purée in two or three batches in a blender or food processor. Rinse the pot and return the soup to the pot. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Reheat if necessary. Serve warm but not hot, garnished with the herbs or dolloped with one of the garnishes below. 

Make Ahead Tips: This soup stores beautifully and tastes better the second day. You can keep it in the refrigerator as long as you bring it to a boil every two days. Or you can stash it in the freezer for up to three months. 

Serving Suggestions:

 To add a creamy touch, try one of these garnishes: 

Serve w grilled cheese. 

Sour cream, goat cheese & Parmesan garnish: In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup sour cream with 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese. Add 1 Tbs. freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano, 1 Tbs. thinly sliced chives, and 1 Tbs. extra-virgin olive oil. Mix thoroughly and season to taste with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Add a dollop to each serving. 

Crème fraîche, herb & horseradish garnish: In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup crème fraîche with 1 Tbs. minced fresh dill and 1 Tbs. minced scallion. Add 1/2 Tbs. well-drained prepared white horseradish and mix well. Season to taste with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Add a dollop to each serving. 

Nutrition information (per serving): 

Calories (kcal): 110; Fat (g): fat g 5; Fat Calories (kcal): 50; Saturated Fat (g): sat fat g 1.5; Protein (g): protein g 3; Monounsaturated Fat (g): 3; Carbohydrates (g): carbs g 11; Polyunsaturated Fat (g): 0.5; Sodium (mg): sodium mg 430; Cholesterol (mg): cholesterol mg 5; Fiber (g): fiber g 2; 

Make Mistakes, breathe, reflect and Laugh.Out.Loud.

Pop Culture References and Being a Mom, How I incorporate mainstream subjects into Day to Day Parenting with Love, Trust, and Respect Model

Pop Culture References and Being a Mom

When I am out if the house and hearing and seeing the world thru the lens of pop culture, these new terms and ideas often enter our home. We cant run away from the outside world! Whether it's a new movie or book, or even a song, my sons want to know what there about, and the underlying meanings. Even if my sons don't "pick up on" the undertones, there friends do... To my shagrin :-( > > Whether its a movie reference or a new term my kids either bring it up or I do. I reflect on the subjects, usually as a blogpost or a tweet. I work through some thoughts, if needed, and then bridge the conversations. Twitter comments are linked here too.

NEW UPDATE >>> 

Learn About our new You Tube Channel at the end of this blog. 

See It Live >>>  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2mGpujQIVgxdfTImFnQuLA

> > Pop Culture and Teaching my Kids, at the movies: Kingsman and 50 Shades of Grey > > When my husband and I saw "Kingsman" on Valentines Weekend 2015, there is a scene between the leading men discussing what makes a gentleman. "Manners make the man." And you don't have to be born with a silver spoon in your mouth to learn manners. For example, when entering a room, if not invited, you ask permission to sit and join them /someone already seated.



Or you knock on a door before entering. > > These Manners reminders came home with me, especially when mom is using the bathroom.

> > Follow me on twitter for the immediate #popculture #learning > twitter.com/minstr0interior/status/567859396190978050 > >

Another example is either beloved or dreaded: 50 Shades of Gray. When my kids asked what the fuss was about, I summarized that you have to think through your own personal feelings on a subject, and this book forced some "non mainstream" ideas onto our society, making people talk about it. And many people have strong opinions.

> > My under 140 characters #popculture #learning about #50ShadesofGray > twitter.com/minstr0interior/status/567860091115810816 > >

"Whats do you think mom?" I gave my kid my house philosophy "sex ed / talking about it with my kids" answer. "Love, Trust and Respect should be the reason for doing anything in a relationship. When your older, life can get more complicated, maybe your curious about something new, or your partner wants something that you may / or may not want. How do you decide? Let Love, Trust and Respect guide you." Luckily older son assumed plain vanilla Kissing or Sex (phew!).

>> NEW UPDATE Learn About our new You Tube Channel at the end of this blog. 

See It Live >>>  

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2mGpujQIVgxdfTImFnQuLA

Clearly we had a busy Valentines season in 2015!!!

Pop Culture: Jian Ghomeshi, Q CBC Radio and beating charges.
Before both these movies there was another instance of two similar stories, where one without the other might not have made me say anything. Facebook had an article on another rape case on a college campus, however this article said many young man rapists don't realize what they're doing is wrong. The second story was the sudden firing - from one of my favorite public radio shows on NPR via CBC radio, Q - the shows creator and on air host Jian Ghomeshi. He was fired for his alleged sexual beating of multiple women. Situations where he dated women and pursued aggressive, non consensual BDSM sex scenarios with these women. He claims the women were in agreement - however the countless women claimed otherwise.

I sat in my car and realized I don't ever want my sons, or my daughter, to ever have a moment of doubt for what is / is not consent! There can be no question for themselves or their partner... Which lead to another Love, Trust, Respect talk. It was a little more in depth, saying girls have to say yes BY Themselves, you don't try to "convince them, beg or ever force." There is no game around these types of things. If a girl is drunk or on drugs, that means No! You can't do anything. If a girl is hurt or sleeping, that means No too. We will be revisiting this conversation many more times, I assure you.

NEW UPDATE :: YOUTUBE CHANNEL INFO ARE YOU SURE ABOUT THAT BLOG

Our family has had many adventures through the years. Mom, the @Minstr0Interior had an a-ha moment . . .  Suddenly I See what we will have filled our life with, ADVENTURES! We travel, craft, sing, dance, collect insects and spend loads of time together. Sometimes too much time together. Our kids have recently begun to document their own adventures, and so this channel was born. Enjoy our adventures. Or not. WANT MORE? If there is a blog post accompanying this video we will share it here. Sometimes we will include the ingredients list of the craft or recipe, or the itinerary of our trip. In the meantime click play. 

From our family: 👍 + 🙃 + ❤️ ( Thumbs up, emoji face, hearts! )

See It Live >>> 

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Make Mistakes, breathe, reflect and Laugh.Out.Loud

I wanna have some Pancakes with you - an Unwritten Song. Pancake Recipe Included

I am so happy to take some notes here about the Pancake song. You know how you stand over the stove and prep the batter, this little melody just popped in my mind as I poured batter into the pan, and my littles waited at the breakfast table. 

I wanna have some Pancakes with you, an Unwritten Song. Pancake Recipe Included

From: I wanna eat some pancakes with you! Summer 2015 > > 

The Summer Routine > >  eating. . . 

Being a mom, staying at home, can feel mundane. You are a slave to the stove, snack queen, mediator of the sibling rivalry, etc. Etc.  While I am making pancakes this morning, a moment of I can't believe I'm cooking ... again ... overtook me. However we aren't rushing. 

Eventho I sort of put this burden on myself (since we don't eat cereal every morning) and the kids eat something fresh everyday! Toast and fruit, leftovers, potato pancakes, etc. 

Today I am making pancakes from scratch, but we are not rushed - we have very little planned. We are on summer break, so why rush? The schedule today calls for some vintage shopping and the beach. I can use an iron skillet, and put a pat of butter before I ladle each little pancake. If course its more time consuming working on a small iron skillet (in the bottom photo I used my mom's skillet, but at home it's my 'plancha' from when we got married for heating tortillas - way too small), but ridiculously yummy too!! 

You know that moment as a parent - we feel it deep inside that we are nourishing our kids - and with the best ingredients we can. I was careful not to burn pancakes, or walk away from the stove to get the just right finish on them, . .  That just feeds my mommy soul.

When little younger son was born I think this song started. I would hum "I wanna have some pancakes with you. Oh don'tcha know it, Pancakes with you, I wanna show it." - Then one day I asked - as if a lyric was written - wanna add banana - or chocolate chips? What a yummy treat! "Pancakes with you, with you, love you."

The kids get plates and forks for breakfast, my older son came in the kitchen mid pancake making and started playing the iPad songs. By the time I get thru the batch of pancakes, and last few cup size pieces they are discussing their dreams, Men in Black and Donna Summers "I survive" which is playing on the ipad. Baby girl always adds a bonus to our time together: she was practicing her ballet spins. 

As we eat We will talk about the plan for the day and "make a plan." We posted about making a plan to help manage kids expectations here.

If you want the song lyrics I wanna have some pancakes with you song - they are here.

 Our recipe: "I wanna have some Pancakes with you" pancake recipe

・ 2 eggs 

・ 1 cup flour 

・ 1 cup whole milk or buttermilk 

・ Pinch of salt 

・ 2 teaspoons flat baking powder 

・ 1 tablespoon olive or vegetable oil 

・ Several pats of butter 

・ Iron Skillet if you have one 

・ Add ons: either: chocolate chips, Banana slices, Blueberries or what ever mix in you enjoy from the fridge 

Pancake making instructions - the Steps: 

IN a large bowl, make a flower mound, put a circle hole in the middle with your spoon (think volcano projects) and cracked the eggs in to be in that area, begin to incorporate flour, and slowly start to add milk and continue whisking. 

Watch out for lumps - however don't worry if you have them. These are part of the homemade fun. Keep whisking. The secret to NOT getting lumps for me - is to add milk slowly to the bowl (1/8 - 1/4 cup at a time and keep on whisking. 

Warm the skillet, add a pat of butter, ladle in a quarter cup of pancakes - in small sizes. WHY? I just hate flipping large pancakes, or under cooking the center. So small makes for easy consistent meals.

The recipe here can make approximately 30 small pancakes. 

Layer in your chips or banana slices (or chips or fruit) into the freshly poured batter. Then take a spoon and just smooth over the banana slice with the freshly poured pancake batter with some of the batter on the cakes - it hasn't hardened yet.

Heat until one side is golden brown, (2 mins depending on your pan and the heat. The first batch it takes approximately three minutes, in sequential batches it'll take 1 to 2 minutes each side. 

After you clear the pancakes from the pan, add another pat of butter before adding more of the batter, this just adds an extra nice flavor to each batch of pancakes. 

As for the song, I wanna eat my pancakes with you . . . I'll write it one day. Until then the mellody is in my head.

Make Mistakes, breathe, reflect and Laugh.Out.Loud AND SING! 

a quickr pickr post

Nursing Baby Girl and Her Feet

Baby Girl would nurse and always put her little feet between my legs. Perhaps she kept them tucked under my ribcage in utero? That sure is how it felt! These days were long ago. By the look of her little pants I'd say at least 3 years ago...

She comes to our bed at night, now age 3 1/2, and hse still tucks her legs into mine ... sweetness.

Make Mistakes, breathe, reflect, and laugh.out.loud.

Kids Don't Care if their Project Does Not Look Like Pinterests Pictures

Pinspiration has been the tragedy for some, and something fantastic for us. Fantastic with mistakes. But I have always taken the time to show my kids that even when our project doesnt look like the Pinterest picture, we still learned something and still had fun making it.....In addition. The kids DO NOT CARE that it doesnt look like Pinterest. How About That!

They care about their day to day interactions. Their attempts at science, the project, or whatever weird craft alley I was dragging them down. Here my Older Son, then 4 or so, was exploring with paint on the floor. I remember how he loved the "new venue" to craft. So simple.




Pinspiration melted broken crayons repurposed into new cookie crayons. Fun.



Make mistakes, breathe, reflect and Laugh.Out.Loud

Our Very First EVER Insect Collection Bug Box it only took 2 years

Exploring Insects has been tremendous for our family. Learning, experiencing, and sharing wonderful moments together.

Our Very First EVER Insect Collection Bug Box it only took 2 years

The big reveal!

We are excited to share our FIRST BUG BOX! 

We made plenty of mistakes in making this collection. AND we learned more then our mistakes. That's probably why we keep doing it? We are avid bug collectors as our family hobby - Learn more at areyousureaboutthatblog.blogspot.com

Our Very First EVER Insect Collection Bug Box it only took 2 years 

These were some of the tools - totally amateur that made this bug box collection happen. 

• Empty containers (cleaned after the nutella was gone!)
• Pin cushion (I would use a box tho - little yucky bug bits and all)
• Clear nail polish - that is ONLY for the bugs.
• Nail polish remover - the poison that kills them in the bug jar (on a cotton ball- toxic!)
• Plastic tupperware container - to hold the stages bug in an air tight lid while they "cure"
• That PLUS Sign cut out - was for the moth balls. Now we just shave bits into the box directly . . . easier and clean.

We love insect collecting. Check out our blog to learn more about how to set up your own supplies. areyousureaboutthatblog.blogspot.com

How about in video versions. . . 

Our Very First EVER Insect Collection Bug Box it only took 2 years

Fathers Day Gift, Easy Handmade Kids Craft, Summer Fun, Week One

My younger son graduated kindergarten, we actually call it the end of year celebration ceremony (we believe you don't "graduate" until high school and then college. We want to hold school standards in a high regard, and if the kids keep having these "graduation ceremonies" then they will start to lose their value. (Their 8th grade graduations will be recognized with a small family dinner at a restaurant of their choice.)

Younger sons first day of summer starts this Monday, or my older son still has one additional week of school. I asked my younger son what he wants to do on his first day of summer, he said let's go to culvers for ice cream. I said are you sure there isn't more you want to do, we have a whole day of fun we can have, so he said let's go to the zoo. And so we did, on Monday we hit the zoo first thing in the morning with our popcorn made it home. We saw the animals that he wanted to see and that he picked. Baby girl did not mind at all her brother making all the decisions that day. Then we drove straight to culvers and thankfully since it's about 30 minutes from the zoo both the kids took a nap in the car on the way there.

> > It was an all fun day! > >

Tuesday we were bums, and got started on Father's Day gifts (which is coming up this Sunday) and I finished my sanding and painting my frames (for my Chicago Water Colors I wanted to hand in the powder room). Its gonna be a rainy week to boot. I had looked up some ideas on Pinterest and questions to ask the kid regarding their dad. And I knew I would make the handmade card for him.

A picture of my dad, I drew Daddy behind a Rainbow.

"Hanging Out" with Older Son.

All About my Dad, these were fun to ask and write. 

All About my Dad Questions: (Thanks Pinterest)

I loved some of the 1 or 2 question cards for dad - So of course Type A mom decides to make a chart. Specifically with open ended questions so the kids could give me loads of details. 

• My Favorite thing to do with my dad is:
• Describe Dad:
• If I could take my dad anywhere in the Tardis, we'd go: (yes we were going thru a phase)
• My Dad is special because:
• About my Dad:
• My Dad Makes: $____
• The most awesome thing  about my dad:
• My dad works:
• If I could take my dad anywhere in the world we'd go:

That night of making Father's Day cards, baby girl told her dad she's going to make him a card with the sun on it. Well that was not on our list, so of course we added that to the list and made her card the next day.

Baby girl wanted to make dad a card with the Sun on It! 

WE LOVE YOU DAD

 Make Mistakes, breathe, reflect and Laugh.Out.Loud.

Monarch Caterpillar Discovery in our Chicago Garden with 3 year old toddler

Date: June 22, 2015 > 

Monarch Caterpillar Discovery in our Garden > > 

Baby girl was playing In our yard on her stroller and she discovered twi lovely caterpillars. Both were on opposite ends of this plant bed, but both enjoying the Dill Weed. 

She is happy to pose with her discoveries. While I do have glass viles to collect soft body specimens in alcohol, however I haven't developed an interest or a need to collect soft body insects. 

How about in video versions. . . we have more monarch caterpillars - and a BUTTERFLY CAGE with caterpillars on the youtube channel. We even filmed a butterfly release many, many, many times.

Monarch Caterpillar Discovery in our Chicago Garden with 3 year old toddler

Carpenter Bee Fed Sugar Water

Carpenter Bee, fed sugar wAter, but was found again. > > We found a carpenter bee on May 4, on our walk back home from dropping the boys off at school. He was soaking wet, probably from the nights rain storm that had just ended a few hours earlier. Baby girl (3 years old) picked him up even tho his legs were still moving. She screamed a little and I calmed her saying "he wont hurt you." I found a small piece of paper and placed bee on that. She held him - gently - the entire way home. I asked her if we should try to save him first? Or just pin him? She said lets try to help him live. > > I had just read an article on bees that lay helpless, sometimes all they need is a little sugar water to get them back on their feet again. > > When we arrived at home I filled a short lipped lid with a splash of filtered water and teaspoon of white sugar. I use agave in my coffee religiously, but I keep sugar on hand for baking. Chocolate chop cookies just aren't as good without white sugar... > > See more of our adventures at areyousureaboutthatblog dot blogspot dot com > > I angled the lid on a brick piece - and baby girl placed him (upside down) on the lid. I picked him right side up and near the waters edge.then we covered him with a paper tent so a bird wouldnt get a quick snack! Then took this picture. We waited a few minutes, but he just sat there. So we went inside to go about our day and check back later. > > > > Maybe an hour later we peeked out the kitchen window and noticed he was gone! Yaayyy. But our success was short lived. The afternoon was sunny and humid. So after school chores and homework we headed to the park. > > On our walk home, there was the same bee, laying by our garage in the alley. Is it the same bee? Sure is, notice the markings on his back. Same bare spot. Also a good way to Identify carpenter bees (bald back). > > Here he is pinned using an 001 stainless steel pin on the pinning block. > > > > > Make Mistakes, breathe, reflect and Laugh.Out.Loud

Handmade Easy Elephant Paws for Baby Girl or as a Gift.

Homemade Easy Elephant Paws Costume for Kids

After sewing the schools costumes this year, my daughters reminding me that she wants elephant paws (a la one of the shows characters). I finished embroidering my boys jerseys, which was thrilling all its own. I can't believe sometimes how easy it is to learn new things. So of course after I showed baby girl that I had finished the boys names, she asked "Whats for me?" Mommy suddenly remembered the Elephant Paws request. And so a star was born... 

Well a basement singer. My universal sewing machine made in Japan is the rock star of this performance. I had made practice stitches of each setting to remember for future use. Said sewing stitch aid as also used here in this project. Baby girl pulled up a chair and sat next to me the whole 20 minutes of sewing. She asked lots of questions and I answered each one as I sewed. Logistics: the elephant paws were sewn wrong way facing first to be inverted when complete. First sew on nails. Then 3 layers if felt. Between the top two layers I stuffed the bunting (using what I had on hand). Then I sewed layer 1-2 closed. I don't want her hands touching the stuffing, pulling it out, getting it dirty, etc. 

Beautiful Purple Elephant Paws, with pink nails. My Daughters color choices can't be beat!  Getting paws on by herself, "but mommy I need help." Nope! "Just like daddy said, if you want your new bracelet - or in your case paws - you need to be able to put it on yourself."  And she did!! 

Baby girl is so excited to try on her elephant paws! 

Trying on her new elephant paws. Pink painted toe nails. Nice touch! 

Date: May 15, 2015

 Make Mistakes, breathe, reflect and Laugh.Out.Loud. 

A Four Year Olds Questions on Bugs - Entomology and Why We Collect Insects - one of my favorite posts

One of my FAVORITE posts! Children are smart, treat them that way!

My high school friend and her 4 year old daughter follows me on facebook and sees our many Insect Posts. She and her mom had a chat and here are some of the questions that resulted.

"E has a load of questions for you about the bug collection.  We've narrowed it down to the most important: do you collect your bugs alive or dead? Why do you put them in a box? How do catch them if they are alive? Did you ever get stung or bit when looking at the bugs?"

A Four Year Olds Questions on Bugs - Entomology and Why We Collect Insects - one of my favorite posts

I L.O.V.E. Kids questions! They are so genuine and absolutely curious about every aspect of things "new to them." I took a lot of time to answer her questions and add a little more detail where I could.  These were good questions for a kid, and adults too.

A Royal "Princess Party" R.S.V.P

We were recently invited to a Princess Party. The invitation is a pink and white crown cut out with the following invitation:

"By Royal Order

You are cordially imvited to

The celebration of 

Princess Friend

Third Birthday

Saturday, September 12th 2015

2:00-4:00 pm

Address included"

Did you know that all invitations from her royal majesty are actually Orders. Orders which we mere day to day people need to obey! I of course googled a proper response to the queens invitation. 

This great website has more details: http://www.debretts.com/forms-address/royal-family/communicating-queen/invitations-and-queen

Our reply:

Sir and Lady Our Names and Lady Baby girl present their compliments to the Mater of Household and have the honour to obey Her Majesty, Princess Piper's command, and will partake in festivities on September 12th at 2.00 o'clock

My baby girl is already planning her outfit, a tiara and tutu skirt. We arent encouraging full on princess dresses yet. Perhaps Ill remake her baptismal gown into a ceeam color skirt for her? She has many pretty dresses, I think I'd rather wncourage her to wear "real" clothes. I do t want the schmata Princess dresses we see eventually falling apart, torn, ripped, etc. Our kids pretwnd play &  dress up often, and I really don't think she's missing out in any way. I can't wait ro get some inspiration from the kids in attendance.

Make Mistakes, breathe, reflect and Laugh.Out.Loud 

Poem: Husbands Love; "You have given me wings"

Husband's Love

Today you told me you loved me so much,

That you don't even know,

You couldn't place why that was,

But a few ideas you wanted to show:

What a good job I've done with the boys, or maybe tending to you?

As for the house cleaning, not so much,

But we agree it's kept tidy too.

We laugh, often and sometimes hard,

It can even lead to tears,

And if we're feeling somewhat jarred,

other times we share our deepest fears.

But today, you realized what it is, 

that feeling that brings you Close to me,

It's not the kids, house or jokes,

it's just letting you be free! 

The story behind the poem:

I had supported my husband through college as his "editor" on his various papers. This continued into his first and second jobs in administration. Then I supported him when he joined a principal training program and was gone 5 times over the course of a year to visit other school districts nationwide. 

He said one night I had "given him his wings" to be free to pursue his career. And I was happy to help.

by: Areyousureaboutthatblog Author
Not Authorized for Reproduction Without Permission

Make Mistakes. Breath, Reflect. and Laugh.Out.Loud

Poem: Decorating with Things I Find

Yes, my kids fall asleep in the car when we drive back from an activity or errand. So I would let them sleep. They loved it. My grandma would ALWAYS COMPLAIN, how uncomfortable, how miserable for the kids. Move them to their bed.

As a kid who grew up on the road I loved sleeping in the car. I still do. The movement and motion of the road makes a great napping. So I wouldn't transfer the kids, unless I had to. And in time I discovered driving around and letting the kids sleep was not uncomfortable, miserable, or making them unhappy.

When driving around I saw first hand the first world benefit we have, and our neighbors, where having an excess of items and being able to throw good, quality things away.

No photos here... just some thoughts on the trash.

POEM // DECORATING WITH THINGS I FIND

I Listed things I found,
In the neighborhood when driving around.
My kids would nap in the car,
Why should I wake their dreams from afar.

An antique table, who's trim can be fixed in a breeze,
a little glue could allow this table to hold my keys. 

An entire play lot for my kids,
a slide, a hut and tunnel in it.

Kitchen chairs made of solid wood,
found by my uncle in the hood.

Even a pair of jeans once owned,
were thrown out, forgotten, alone.

Dumpster diving is a skill,
one that I do not do well.

However this excess that we have,
throw it out, by a new one instead.

Plastic is cheap, a small price to pay,
for the convenience of instant replacement to stay.

The value of quality, workmanship and expertise,
I feel is lost. But not in my home,
not to be tossed.

Out out out in the cold.
A new couch, a rug, a lamp,
from the home.

NEW UPDATE :: YOUTUBE CHANNEL INFO

Our family has had many adventures through the years. Mom, the @Minstr0Interior had an a-ha moment . . .  Suddenly I See what we will have filled our life with, ADVENTURES! We travel, craft, sing, dance, collect insects and spend loads of time together. Sometimes too much time together. Our kids have recently begun to document their own adventures, and so this channel was born. Enjoy our adventures. Or not. WANT MORE? If there is a blog post accompanying this video we will share it here. Sometimes we will include the ingredients list of the craft or recipe, or the itinerary of our trip. In the meantime click play. 

From our family: 👍 + 🙃 + ❤️ ( Thumbs up, emoji face, hearts! )

See It Live >>> 

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2mGpujQIVgxdfTImFnQuLA

Make mistakes, breathe and laugh.out.loud!

Addressing Parental Concerns, Knowledge is Power. Communication is the Key

It takes a lot of courage in today's world to be brutally honest. To basically expose the raw, true feelings you have will open you up to commentary, more so then ever with social media! And to go even further, and "open up" in your own community, your back yard, to possible even further potential commentary from your fellow neighbor, that takes courage.

Opening up from the heart, and sharing your perspective can create a fury of negative comments. Add the factor of a special needs kid, and you can hear a wide variety of comments, as I have thru the years - in both private, catholic and public school arenas. When my younger son was in a class with a special needs boy, a big comment was about "inclusion" or "why are my kids exposed to special needs?"

I was very moved to receive this GREAT letter from a parent (name excluded) of a Down Syndrome boy in our Kindergarten class. My younger son has provided a lot of information about this in hos daily report" after school. How the day went, What we learned, and play time with new friemd. He has also learned about Down's in class, but it was so refreshing to get a letter addressing parental questions and concerns - directly. Parent to parent... BRAVO!


Addressing Parental Concerns, Knowledge is Power, a photo by areyousureaboutthatblog on Flickr.

Sometimes there isn't enough communication about the important stuff and supporting our special needs community. I did email the mom "kudos" on her really well written letter addressing curiosity and questions. I just had to share...

If you are reading this post, please post a comment below on what you liked - or didn't  - about this read. Does the topic interest you and you want to know more? Submit a question and I am happy to tackle it.

I do feel that's it's often unfortunate that these letters even have to go out, however Downs Syndrome and special needs situations are beyond the experience (and therefore the understanding) or many families. However, even with out the knowledge, empathy should always be present.

All you need to do is say "Hello." If you can't say hi, at least smile in their direction. Don't exclude a special needs kid because of how they look or talk, that is a CHILD who wants compassion as much as "normal" looking kids do.

I've made plenty of mistakes in the special needs arena (like telling a new mom of a Down's baby that she looked great {having lost all the pregnancy weight}, she replied Honestly: it was due the depression she was coping with and sitting crying on the shower floor - insert foot in my mouth!), but I correct my own ignorance, learn from experiences, and most importantly try to exemplify good, true, loving behavior for my kids to observe. Like simply saying "hello!"

(As for all those complaints, it's often what those yelling the loudest don't see. A little kid, who is just a little different. Who hugs, smiles and can share just like their kids. . . It may take them a little longer, or they may be shy at first. But the real problem here is not the special needs child, the real problem is us parents, who can't see beyond their illness/disability. My kids luckily just see their friend!)

NEW UPDATE :: YOUTUBE CHANNEL INFO ARE YOU SURE ABOUT THAT BLOG

Our family has had many adventures through the years. Mom, the @Minstr0Interior had an a-ha moment . . .  Suddenly I See what we will have filled our life with, ADVENTURES! We travel, craft, sing, dance, collect insects and spend loads of time together. Sometimes too much time together. Our kids have recently begun to document their own adventures, and so this channel was born. Enjoy our adventures. Or not. WANT MORE? If there is a blog post accompanying this video we will share it here. Sometimes we will include the ingredients list of the craft or recipe, or the itinerary of our trip. In the meantime click play. 

From our family: 👍 + 🙃 + ❤️ ( Thumbs up, emoji face, hearts! )

See It Live >>> 

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2mGpujQIVgxdfTImFnQuLA

Make Mistakes. Breathe, reflect. And Laugh.Out.Loud.

Intellectual Isolation, and Stay at Home Mom Boredom Syndrome

Time flies. I empathize with moms I see, because I remember.

As I once posted in a poem, I'm not one of the stay at home mom's who likes to gossip. I don't share my private family details just to fill the time and talk about something, anything, while waiting to pick up my kids at school. I "don't cackle with the hens."

How can I keep to myself and NOT seem like a prude? Or worse, a snob! I am not, really. I just don't idle chit-chat. I like to talk about travel, politics, humor, books, kids activities, abilities, current events, cooking and meal planning... I like talking about subjects that take more than 5 minutes. And no - I do not like to gossip. Period.

Well, being so reclusive in my younger years as a new mom had an unexpected side effect.

NEW UPDATE >>> 
Learn About our new You Tube Channel at the end of this blog. 

See It Live >>>  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2mGpujQIVgxdfTImFnQuLA

Of course I talk to people, I say hello, talk about perhaps a recent activity, or place we visited or ran into someone at. But I don't stand around talking about the teachers, the kids, or the issues. That's the kind of "gossip" I don't partake in, unless its with my grandmother or my mom - just a little.

I always say hello to my neighbors and smile, but I don't stop to chat, instead I keep walking. Some conversation have turned and when they do it's about so and so and when they did such and such.... I don't want to hear the gossip of this teacher or that. And frankly it isn't any of our (or my) business! 

And so with this non-gossipy, don't wanna chit-chat about nothing approach to life causes an unusual side effect.

Intellectual Isolation and Stay at Home Mom Boredom Syndrome

The stay at home mom syndrome many of us feel. This Isolation from other adults, from the mental stimulation we get when we "work" with others or "on the job." This mental or Intellectual Isolation causes a sadness sometimes, a lack of motivation, and even irritation. 

My kids in the distance. Picnic Lunch. A large open space feeling of Isolation.

But this can be overcome.

I know my staying home with the kids is drawing to a close. When my baby girl starts school I am going back to work, and I am ready for that. I enjoy working, I enjoy being engaged and making a difference. I also like spending time with adults and having a higher level thinking process and conversation. As a result of knowing things will change, I treasure this time, yes even when I feel blah, because I know it isn't forever!!! I will be on a new path within two years or so.

Okay, I'm also an optimist. So when I do have a project, or a craft, task or mission I enjoy the work. I don't complain about the task with my kid/s. When I made the school musical costumes a mom from the previous year STILL complained to me about how hard it was, so time consuming, "I know what your going thru she said."  No, no you don't! I FELT INSPIRED, Motivated, thrilled to be "working" in the theatre (my passion). The kids we're so responsive to my help. They would get one piece of their costume and were transformed in their performance on stage. Knowing that the kids totally appreciated my work, and watching the leads "become their character" as they wore those costumes I Made - was a powerful feeling! I was proud, pleased with my work (yet, of course still critical on how I could've done this or that detail even better if I had more time). No worries because I will have another chance with the next show.

If you are reading this post, please post a comment below on what you liked - or didn't  - about this read. Does the topic interest you and you want to know more? Submit a question and I am happy to tackle it.

When I lack adult conversation and spend my whole day with kids, my brain seems to function at a lower level. I find myself loosing words and not able to find that one specific descriptive word and find myself explaining things instead. When writing this blog, I stepped away to make coffee when trying to remember the word "analysis." [I do blog to keep my brain engaged in higher level order thinking an to help me process my day/s so it's not all one big blur.]

Surprisingly, on some days the craftiness seems to bubble over where I am finding inspiration often for crafts. Perhaps this is how my brain stays engaged?  By finding ways to push itself, resulting in creativity?

I watch documentaries and have stuck with my commitment to read my National Geographic magazine every month. I try to read the books on my reading list... But that isn't as easy. I cant get my brain to get into the book. For some reason I can't focus in as well as  I used too.

During the day, while I am cooking lunch or dinner, I find myself binge watching shows on Netflix. Afterwards I will read a few bloggers analysis online about the episode and then I think thru my perspective. I think this "mental exercise" also keeps my brain stimulated.

What crap nonsense is that? Binge watching and later "thinking about" the characters or plot is improving or challenging my brain?? I don't know this for a fact, but I do find myself being more creative with little problems throughout the day after this "think about it" exercise. I have found myself staying calmer with the kids, addressing their needs and answering them with appropriate problem solving techniques. Forget about it when it comes to my crafts, I have become super crafty with quick inspirations and ideas flooding my brain! 

I didn't blog about making our school musicals costumes, but in 12 days I was amazed at the quality of costumes I made --- with no former experience! Unless you count my kids halloween costumes thru the years! 100 kids dressed, and fit to their characters, and more then just colorful t-shirts. Yaay! I can only assume that trying to remain intellectually stimulated helped the fire of creativity!

Originally Posted in 2012.

NEW UPDATE :: YOUTUBE CHANNEL INFO ARE YOU SURE ABOUT THAT BLOG

Our family has had many adventures through the years. Mom, the @Minstr0Interior had an a-ha moment . . .  Suddenly I See what we will have filled our life with, ADVENTURES! We travel, craft, sing, dance, collect insects and spend loads of time together. Sometimes too much time together. Our kids have recently begun to document their own adventures, and so this channel was born. Enjoy our adventures. Or not. WANT MORE? If there is a blog post accompanying this video we will share it here. Sometimes we will include the ingredients list of the craft or recipe, or the itinerary of our trip. In the meantime click play. 

From our family: 👍 + 🙃 + ❤️ ( Thumbs up, emoji face, hearts! )

See It Live >>> 

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2mGpujQIVgxdfTImFnQuLA

Make mistakes, breathe, reflect and Laugh.Out.Loud.

Enrolling in a Kindergarten Reading Study with UIC for Younger Son

Through our neighborhood school, we have an opportunity to enroll in a University of Illinois at Chicago study and reading and kindergartners. We read every night as a family either my husband or I will read to our five-year-old son and two-year-old daughter and then our older son will either read on his own, join us for the book. Currently we're reading the Harry Potter series (with breaks for other books in between) and I'll read outloud for all of us as a group together in bed. This year 2014, a questionnaire came home about are interested in enrolling in the reading study, we thought that it would be something interesting to do and participate in. So after talking with husband we decided to enroll.

Two Updates are posted below on the program progress. 

The survey was pretty simple, asking you about your child's abilities in your opinion in reading and math. How well do you think they'll do over a long time. With reading and math. And it also asked about the parents levels of education. There was a questionnaire for myself and a questionnaire for my husband. The interesting part to me was that at the end of the survey they asked questions along the lines of gender bias and reading and math. Things like usually girls are better in reading. And then do you agree or disagree on the scale with the statement. Also boys are usually better in math. And then all children can learn. On the Parent sections of the questionaire your number to the statements were drawn differently along the lines of child intelligence and being able to change a child's intelligence and abilities in reading and math, and agreeing or disagreeing with those statements.

I strongly disagreed with my parent my statements. I think that both boys and girls can equally learn in math and reading. It has to do with simply supporting their abilities, and supplementing where they don't have strengths in certain areas. Ironically, my husband wasn't in the strongly disagree category he was in the one next to it disagree for some of the categories. I'm sure they'll be a dialogue about that at home later. As for today I got to pick up our iPad mini which had the app that we are to use four times a week preinstalled. It will keep track of our reading and the questions that we ask our son. The study is not keeping track of answers, which I thought was interesting. Because I think there is something to be said for children who are understanding what they're reading and what is being read to them. However there are questions at the bottom of the app for "we wines, little kids, and big kids. So I most certainly will be participating in all levels of the questioning just so we can challenge our younger son into some higher-level thinking.

If you are reading this post, please post a comment below on what you liked - or didn't  - about this read. Does the topic interest you and you want to know more? Submit a question and I am happy to tackle it.

Originally we thought we were required to read every night for 15 minutes with our child, now finding out when we picked up the iPad mini that we really have to simply read the daily passage and ask the question, and it's only four times a week so I don't anticipate the reading taking 15 minutes but I do anticipate that that conversation about what we read will take that long.

As for our younger son, I'll be sure to be telling him that he is a participant in the study. We will most definitely get a copy of the journal in which the study will be published. This way my kids can see on the backend of what it means to be a participant in the study in the work that is involved. Maybe if they choose to have scientific careers this study participation and understanding what is involved (logistics) is something that would interest them in the future?

Make Mistakes, breathe, reflect and Laugh.Out.Loud 




Update: 2015

We liked participating in the UIC Reading Study. The iPad came with a preloaded app called BLT (Bed Time Learning). The passages to read everynight were short - maybe 1-2 minutes to read with a series of one to four questions to ask and encourage discussion afterwards. You could also choose to record the discussion.

The passages were interesting subjects, and a few of them were timely with current events. However, spelling errors, at a graduate level program, are UNACCEPTABLE! Granted I am a detail freak - however when working with the public you build into the system some sort of cross check for spelling and editing. Then when I emailed the group help email, they said they'd get to it.....still waiting. We have the app and errors didn't get changed. Now that's unfortunate.

As for the reading, we snuggled with the iPad, which "felt" different then snuggling with the books we have. My younger son pointed out his "popcorn" words while we read - that was cool (disruptive, but good for him). There weren't the fun pictures that books have relating to the text. Instead it was 1 pic for the story. The questions were simple - having the child recall basic facts from the story. However when we read we discuss the story, favorite parts, how we felt, and ultimately it relates to a current event in our lives or a recent story .... the simplicity of the questions was a turn off for my son and I. But we continued reading passages and I'd ask my own questions.


Update 2016
My son met at the local library with one of the researchers. He answered a series of questions and we received a $25 gift card. Even tho we no longer participate in the actual reading of the app. he became part of something like their "non participant" control group. 
This year I received another questionnaire packet which I completed and mailed back. We are participating because Young Son said it was interesting and he didn't mind. 

Recommended for New Moms the MMR Vaccine, but There Is Another Option which helps with Shingles too.

After I gave birth to my Baby Girl in January 2010, I was informed that my rubella resistance was low and an MMR, Measles, Mumps Rubella vaccine booster was recommended.

I DO believe in vaccines. I DO NOT believe in Doctors / CDC Vaccination Schedule which is a completely separate post.

So I went ahead and got the MMR booster before my discharge from the hospital. Since then I have had three family members come down with the shingles virus. Shingles is HORRIBLE!

-- My step mother had it - age 58. She developed a rash all over bot her arms and neck. She itched horribly and had severe pain. She still went to work (which blows my mind that we allow this contagious disease in workplaces. Who wants to stay home and ache. I too would want to get my mind off things, and the pain. But I don't think putting others at risk is AT ALL a responsible act. Why hasn't there been a law limiting social interaction with this disease?). On a scale of 1-10, about a 8, she'd say a 6.

-- My mother had it as a small rash on her chest/breast area. Causing aching and pain, on a scale of 1-10, about a 5 in pain, and a 9 in irritation. My mom also went to work, see comment above.

-- Lastly, my 83 year old grandmother had shingles. A thin red line developed along her back, near her bra strap. She thought it was an irritation, until the pain set in 5 days later. The rash stayed small. On a scale of 1-10, about a 8 in pain, and 10 for the family's burden and hearing about it every day.

As employees of CPS, we have this wellness / survey program as a health insurance requirement. I was reading my wellness report and saw the Recommended Health Vaccination Schedule for Adults. And the Shingles Vaccine was listed for 60+, however the Varicella vaccine for Chickenpox was also listed.

My Wellness Preventative Health Vaccine Assessment (copied from my personal wellness page) Includes:

Shingles Vaccine

Age 60+: 1 dose

Varicella (Chickenpox) Vaccine

Age 19+: 2 doses (if no evidence of prior 2-dose vaccination or of immunity)

Well upon further reading it turns out Merck, the manufacturer of both these vaccines makes a combo vaccine for MMRV- a combination measles, mumps, rubella, and chickenpox vaccine, and zoster, or shingles vaccine. I wish I'd know this because I would have preferred the combination shot MMRV instead of the standard MMR for me. I was exposed to my Step Mother, Mother and Grandmother while they had there shingles, my children were not. However, I don't want to suffer this disease. And I'll be requesting the Varicella Booster / and or shingles ASAP.

Original Post: February 24, 2014

Make Mistakes. Breathe. Reflect. And Laugh.Out.Loud

A Day in the Life of Being a Mom, Evolution of Our Daily Schedule

A day on the life of #beingamom. What do you do all day? We Stay at Home Moms (SAHM) LOVE that question. I prefer "family manager" because I do way more then "Stay at Home." There's loads of moms on lockdown. And Loads more who are actively raising their kids and taking this privilege by the horns. I hope I am that mom.

I have posted our NO T.V. Schedule here. And this is one of my most popular posts. This is an updated version. And Yes, you will notice there IS TV time in our routine. I mentioned why absolutely NO television or tube time for my older son was a bad choice!

Here you go! A day in the life of a Stay at Home (Family Manager) mom.

Mom's days are busy, all the time! But WHAT do I do? My facebook friends can see the bug collecting, kids outing, and nature stuff. But those are our "outing days" that we squeeze into our reality. And our reality is also busy eventho it can be mundane at times.

My highlights are the moments with my kids. Reading books, at the park, playing outside, and cuddling - because there's always time for cuddling!

I think of my day in parts. In blocks of time where "I have responsibilities" to fullfill or in blocks of time that "I can fill:"

Daily Time Blocks

7:00 - 8:00 a.m. Morning routine to get to school.

8:30 - 11:30 a.m. get thing done like errands outside the house if needed.

And coffee!!

11:30 - 2:00 p.m. lunch and nap time for baby girl. I either nap with her or get a project list item worked on.

2:00 - 6:00 p.m. after school responsibilities and dinner.

7:00 p.m. Bedtime routine

9:00 p.m. Hopefully the day is over and we are looking forward to tomorrow.

Yesterday

Morning Routine

6:45 am Alarm goes off

Hopefully I've awoken before it rings and turned over. I still snooze until 7:00 (terrible habit, I know).

7:05 get up

Usually 1-2 boys are already dressed or getting dressed

Either get dressed for the day, or if I lack motivation stay in PJs.

Breakfast for the kids.

Make lunches + 1 snack for older son.

Walk to school and back (get in first batch of 2,000 steps).

Back home...

8:20 a.m.

Make coffee.

Get baby girl started on cartoons.

Preview Facebook and Twitter News.

Usually I:

Daily load of laundry, 1 washed 1 folded.

Put said laundry away.

In between play with baby girl, put a puzzle together, we are constantly chatting.

But today we are going grocery shopping. So I got dressed when we came back from drop off, and got coffee! Last night I made a yummy tomato soup and grilled cheese for dinner. It's been a cold Spring and we are in the mood for chili. By 9:00 am we are at the store. First at Target looking for a white straw hat for an event I have coming up. No luck.

Completed shopping, then pick up and drop off my Babcia at 11:00 a.m. She's sending a gift package to Poland. I usually drop her off at the mail facility. She likes taking the bus back home.

___________________________________

Usually: by 10:00 a.m. 

Get dressed for the day if I haven't already (Its ubber important for me to dress well, and show my kids the same).

Dress baby girl.

Pack a snack if needed.

10:30 a.m.

Run errands.

11:30 a.m.

Return home for lunch. Then nap time.

Then I can do something I want to do, hobby wise, or a project with baby girl. 

___________________________________

Today tho I am cooking.

Get home. Unpack groceries. Baby girl plays in toy room.

Start cooking that chili. Recipi is here.

Make a sandwich for lunch and eat.

We eat in the kitchen and read a book, or chat, or color to help baby girl eat.

12:45 p.m. it's her nap time so we read a book, or two. Then play music so she can fall asleep. (I have played gentle music for my kids to fall asleep to since their birth!) 

Sometimes I nap with her (since I need it and these snuggle moments are fleeting).

Today I have some tasks that I can do by baby girl. My chili needs to simmer for an hour. By 1:15 she's asleep.

I am on pinterest looking at how to make my own derby hat (for an upcoming event).

Afternoon Routine

2:00 I make a cup of tea and check the chili. (I am trying to cut back on my coffee intake so I am less irritable.)

At 2:15 my alarm will go off for school pick up reminder. 

Wake baby girl, give her something to drink, use the bathroom, get ready (my next 2,000 steps) to pick up the boys from school. Shoes, coats.

We pick up the boys and talk on the way home about their day, school work, and our girls day too. We often talk into homework time.

3:15 or so, if we didn't stop at the park we tend to be back with the boys in tow. They empty backpacks, lunch bags and change into play clothes. Unuforms go on their chairs for the next day, check pants for stains and get a fresh shirt. I prep snack. Baby girl trails them to hear about their day or play.

Snack and start homework Routine

4:00 p.m. Homework. I stay with the boys to help and start dinner.

Baby girl gets a project or plays.

5:00 p.m. homework is over, younger son gets to play while older son finishes up - at the kitchen table or the desk in his room. 

Dinner Routine and Some Playtime

We either wait for dad to get home to eat between 5:30-6:00 or start on our own if he is going to be late. Kids will do chores as needed like empty the dishwasher, put clothes away or sweep, feed the dog, wipe up spills, clear tables etc.

Set the dinner table with the kids help.

Helping with Garden chores and picking Red Current Bushes

Bedtime Routine

7:00 p.m. Get ready for bed.

Baths or showers. Change into PJs, brush our teeth.

7:30 Snuggles, secret feet tucks and read a book before bed. Hopefully we are done by 8:00 p.m. And I don't mind the hour commitment here. 

And so there goes the day! 

Previously over the years I would stay up and fold a basket of laundry, work on a project, watch TV and have a cup of tea. But then I find myself exhausted for the next day. Instead I get into bed. I chat with my husband, read, watch something on Netflix on the iPad, Pinterest, or mostly go to sleep.

And so the day starts again... Tomorrow.

Fridays are the start of the weekend!!

I make it a point to do a hobby or project list stuff on Friday. Otherwise I don't make much progress on "me" and "family" projects. I have found myself feeling less motivated too. Irony!!! Because I am energetic, idea filled and enthused all the time. And then my motivation lacks. I'll figure this out and get back on track. Thus Fridays are me days.

I make a project list so I can keep track of everything that needs to get done... And for the joy of crossing off the list! I'll have to post my to do list: and what keeps me busy in between my responsibilities. 

Make Mistakes, breathe, reflect and Laugh.Out.Loud