Monday, December 30, 2019

I have missed you all!  This is the longest break I have taken from blogging since starting my blog in April of 2018.  I posted a family recipe on Monday, my menu on Tuesday , and our Christmas card on Wednesday of last week.  The blog world was pretty quiet and I took the time to unplug, but now I am back!  I have so much to tell you but at the same time I don’t want to bore you – ha!  Let’s see if I can give you the Cliff’s Notes version.  That reference probably really shows my age!  

We ended semester one on Friday, December 20 at 2:20.  This was exciting, but also bittersweet because my twin boys are seniors.  I knew this year would fly by and the first semester certainly did. 

Our staff had a happy hour at Drake’s and I attended that for an hour or so while my boys got their break started at home playing video games/listening to music/playing music!   

That week, our painting had started and it was finished on Friday!  What a Christmas present!  This is the mudroom where we will enter the house from the back and which leads to the kitchen.  I chose Sherwin Williams Agreeable Gray.  I love how the floor tile, the dog wash subway tile and dark grout, and the color turned out.  Now we wait on plumbing fixtures, moving the washer and dryer up from the basement, and picking out furniture (free standing wardrobe) and/or shelving units to store backpacks, coats, shoes, dog stuff, etc.  

And, our new master bedroom is Sherwin Williams Egret White.  I love the fresh light paint with the dark floors.  Now, we wait for the closet fixtures to be installed. 

So, for Christmas preparations… December 13 I had zero gifts.  By December 23, I had everything in hand from either Amazon, local stores, or local big box stores.  Also, during that time period I came up with our card, printed it, and mailed it out.  I work well under pressure.  

Saturday, December 21 was a day of chores and just starting to get things ready and I have no photos.  

Sunday, December 22, was more of the same and a trip downtown for hub and I.  We purchased our last gift at Duluth Trading.  

The big city – only a 10 minute drive from our house.  

Duluth Trading

I talked my husband into Zombie Taco at the new Moxy Hotel.  You check in at the bar for your room and there is a taco window open almost 24/7. 

Look at this cute interior fireplace

The tacos and chips and dips were excellent but my margarita was so bad they didn’t charge me.  It was very hipster and I would go back but they must train their people to make a margarita if they have a taco window! 

The next day, I finished this book and do recommend it.  It started to drag for me in the middle but then it picked up. 

On Christmas Eve day, my husband was excited to eat lunch at a deli that he can’t go to very often.  He has never had this many days off at Christmas.  He was off for more than a week.  He helped me shop, went hiking with a friend, and worked on our construction project along with making more trips to Home Depot than I can count.  Well, the deli was closed so I suggested Holy Grale which is a restaurant in a former church with German food.  One son was with us and we all really liked it. 

spaetzle

brussel sprouts

beer cheese and pretzel and fries and pork schnitzel sandwiches

I drank lots of coffee and sometimes with bourbon cream in the afternoon.

Christmas Eve candlelight service with just the four of us

Chinese restaurant after at son’s request

We had a very simple but nice Christmas morning.  The boys big thing was their Apple Airpods that they didn’t ask for but were thrilled to receive. 

I added some whipped cream to my Christmas coffee.

Traditional new family game

New tradition of a puzzle – We went here together in 2016

Then, around 3, Tom’s family came over.  His sister, her husband, my two nieces and a niece’s boyfriend, and Tom’s parents were all here.  The weather was so unseasonably warm that we were able to be out on the patio for part of the day.  I had Chex Mix, queso, charcuterie and then after presents we had ham and swiss sliders, green beans with ketchup, onion, bacon, and brown sugar, and potato casserole and sweets for dessert.  It was a really nice day. 

Thursday it was time to go to my side of the family at my mom’s house an hour away. 

Cookies that my mom bought – so cute. 

appetizers

My mom had calendars made for us and bought us windchimes to remember my Dad because he loved them. 

One of the highlights of the day was when my two sisters and I sat on the front porch where my Dad always sat.  We had about an hour with just the three of us.  Ernie was lying at our feet and this is the only picture I have to remember that time together.  We shared stories and it was really therapeutic.  I won’t lie – this Christmas had its hard moments as it’s been just over a year (December 18, 2018 was when my Dad passed away after a quick 7 week illness) but we were still able to laugh and find joy.

My mom had pillows made of my Dad’s shirts for each of the grandchildren. 

It was a fun day. 

It was crazy that we were able to uncover our patio furniture.  I enjoyed some candles, beverages, and some books. 

Friday night hub and I went to hear some live music for a couple of hours. 

Saturday hub worked on our fence while Ernie and I watched.  

Yesterday, the rain came, but I still enjoyed some coffee on the covered patio.  We also went to the movies as a family.  

It’s a nice feeling to still have a week remaining after Christmas.  I didn’t stress myself out too much this year even though I could have.  So far, I am grateful for the simple pleasures I have been enjoying – time with family, time to read, candles burning, sitting outside, enjoying time to go to places we don’t always have time for – that sort of thing.  My boys have enjoyed each others’ company and that warms my heart.  

I hope to take down Christmas decor, spend time with some friends, do some decluttering and organizing, read a couple more books, watch some more t.v. and movies, among other things.  

How was your holiday?  I hope it was everything you wanted and more.  

Thanks for sticking with me for this long post!  

Amy 

Wednesday, December 25, 2019

Merry Christmas to you if you celebrate!  We didn’t get a professional photo this year so I made do with photos from the year.  

Thank you for being with me this year.  It means so much to me that you visit my little ol’ blog and leave comments.  It really has been a most rewarding hobby.  I am blessed by the friendships I have made.  I learn so much from you and you make my life richer.  

I will be back here either Friday or Monday!  Wishing you joy and peace and lots of time to recharge your batteries with your loved ones!  

Amy 

Tuesday, December 24, 2019

Merry Christmas Eve!  We are going to the 5:00 church service, then out to eat Chinese food, then home to open Christmas p.j.s and our family game and then play that new family game.  

Christmas Morning Menu:

Egg Casserole

French Toast Casserole

O.j. 

Coffee

Snacks around 1-2:  

Chex Mix

Christmas Queso and tortilla chips (White Velveeta and Rotel)

Christmas Lunch/Dinner Menu  (We will eat around 4) :

Ham

Sister Schubert’s rolls

Ham and Swiss Sliders (I wanted to just do these but didn’t know if nice enough and one of my sons doesn’t like the Hawaiian buns – hard to believe!)

Green beans in crockpot with bacon, onion, ketchup, and brown sugar

Potato Casserole

Pink Merengues

Day after Christmas with Other Side of Family:  (We are having appetizers for lunch and to snack on throughout the day and everyone is contributing)

My Contributions:  

Little smokies in crockpot with grape jelly and Heinz chili sauce 

Spinach and artichoke dip

Bacon Chutney Dip with water crackers

What will you be eating?

Merry Eve to you!

Amy

Friday, December 20, 2019

Happy Friday!  Oh.my.gosh!  We only have 5 days until Christmas and I am not ready!  Are you?  As of 2:20 today I will be in strictly Christmas mode.  I had so much school stuff to do first.  I am linking up with Andrea, etc.  so go right hereto see more favorites from the week! 

We had some beautiful snow this week and I loved seeing it from my classroom window.  That gets me in the mood for Christmas!  It melted by the end of the day, sadly.  

My son found this jacket for $10 at Kohls this summer and could not wait to wear it for ugly sweater day at school.  It has gingerbread men and says “bite me”.  I was a bit worried that his teachers/my colleagues would be offended but he said they liked it.  

I love home made rice krispies treats!  I made these for some special people this week!  I don’t think I will add the marshmallows to the top again.  I could not get them arranged in a uniform way.  

I also made sausage squares for breakfast for a school pitch in.  This is the best recipe if you are making Christmas breakfast or brunch and you can make them the day before because that is what I did.  I undercooked a bit and then cooked about 8 minutes more the morning of. 

2 crescent roll tubes (or 2 crescent sheets)

one roll of sausage (1 lb.)

one block of cream cheese

shredded cheddar if desired

I used the rolls but the sheets would look better but I cut them and they looked fine. 

Lay down a tube of rolls or sheets and seal perforations.  

Brown the sausage.  When done, add the block of cream cheese and mix and stir til melted.  

Put this mixture on top of crescent rolls.  Sprinkle about a cup of cheese if desired.  

Add second layer of crescent rolls and seal perforations and also pinch together the two layers of rolls so the sausage mixture doesn’t come out.  

Bake at 350 for about 25 minutes or until golden brown on top.

These are soooo good and taste like biscuits and gravy.  

Would you try either of these simple but crowd pleasing (as long as your crowd isn’t too fancy!) recipes?  

What were your favorites this week?  

If you missed any posts, this week I talked about my weekend here, my favorite decor here, What I Wore here, and my thoughts on Christmas with kids here.  

As always, thank you for reading!  I do plan to post over the break, but I may reduce my posting schedule.  I hope you will check back here and let me just go with the flow! 

Also, what would you like to see more of here in 2020?  I would love to know!  I will continue to keep my blog totally amateur – haha!  

Happy last weekend before Christmas!

Amy 

Thursday, December 19, 2019

When I became a parent I wanted to make the holiday special and I felt the pressure that it was now up to me!  I wanted to be intentional with Christmas so I started some traditions at a pretty early age – age 3 with my twins. 

“Something to wear, something to read, something you want, and something you need.”

I can’t remember where I first heard this quote, but it really resonated with me.  

-We gave the boys new pjs on Christmas Eve and they would immediately put them on.  

-We also opened a family gift on Eve which was always a new game.  

We still do both of these things with our teens.  

We always gave them new socks and underwear in their stockings.  Now it is really the only time of year they get new items in these categories.  They both did start liking the fun patterned/printed socks so we gave them socks for Easter I think. They never complained about getting these items and seemed to like them.  

We also give them new clothing.  They don’t care about name brand but they love soft worn in t-shirts with funny sayings and they love cozy warm clothing.  

Our boys love owning books and they always have.  They loved the library but they wanted to have books to keep, too.  Now that they are teens we usually do a Barnes and Noble gift card. They enjoy perusing the shelves and this makes for a nice family activity over the break.  

We try to give them something that they don’t think they will get.  I love surprises.  There is nothing better than seeing them be shocked at an awesome gift.  It was a record player last year for Mason.  It was a drawing pad and software for Jack recently.  

We knew that we wanted to keep it simple and not too overwhelming.  There would be gifts from grandparents, aunts and uncles, too.  

I also do stockings for them.  They really like opening their stockings, I think.  Everything inside is wrapped.  All of their gifts are wrapped under the tree, too.  And, Tom and I do each others’ stockings.  It’s a lot of fun.  

Have you ever asked your kids their favorite things about Christmas?  I recently asked mine and neither mentioned the gifts.  

I heard: “time at home that day with nowhere to go, watching Ernie look in his stocking, eating  Chinese food after Christmas Eve service (we have only done this once but I guess they liked it!)  

What traditions or advice do you have?  

Amy 

Wednesday, December 18, 2019

I am linking up with The Style Six today so head over there for some ideas!

Here is my adorable co-worker.  She asked to be faceless, but she had on black ponte leggings, tall black boots, chambray top, and burgundy poncho.  She looked so chic and she teaches French – so there you go!  

I wore this to school last week and promptly lost the vest because it was too hot. 

That night I went out to eat and changed into black ponte pants, burgundy top, but with the same vest. 

I wore black with black one day so I could wear my new leopard headband.  I did gold flats to bring out the gold in the headband. 

Shopping outfit – black ponte pants, plaid shirt, black poncho, and headband. 

Buffalo plaid short sleeve from the hospital gift store last year (sad).  I have worn a long black sleeve under this but I like the option to stay a bit cooler.  Our building is seriously overheated and I hate to be hot at work.  

Do you have a favorite?  What have you been wearing?  

Amy 

Tuesday, December 17, 2019

My favorite Christmas decor is really very simple.  I have this hall table and I have all black frames with all of our Christmas cards through the years.  It makes me so happy to bring these out each year.  

The boys’ ages are on the back of each frame.  There was one year where I did not do a card – age 14 – and I still regret it!  

I would love to do this for Halloween – all of their costume photos through the years.  This was actually a suggestion by Gretchen Rubin of The Happiness Project.  

These are just cheap black frames.  I think I bought a set on Amazon.  I like the different sizes.  

What do you think?  How do you save your family’s cards?  

Amy 

Monday, December 16, 2019

Hello Monday and hello dear readers!  How was your weekend?  Mine was pretty good.  I think it really gave me time to recharge my batteries and get ready for a very busy week that will hopefully put some closure on the first semester of school so I can truly relax for two weeks until second semester starts.  I am linking up with Heather, etc. at My Glittery Heart so go right here!  

Thursday night was Jack’s winter choir concert.  He was only part of three songs, but it was nice to see him in his tuxedo and enjoy the beautiful music.  

I tried to stay up later than usual Thursday night but I just couldn’t.  Why?  Because I had a much needed personal day Friday!  Typically I take a day off to do shopping and errands some time between Thanksgiving and Christmas if I can. 

It is very hard to be a mom and a teacher at this time of year.  I am not trying to be a whiner but add to all the many tasks that the mom does all the many tasks it takes to finish the semester.  The kids are distracted, we have content to finish, we have exams to create, give, and grade, grades to enter, parents to contact, and the list goes on. 

Friday morning after doing some things around the house, I met my friend at a new coffee shop.  We sat and talked and drank from real mugs and shared some breakfast.  Then, we headed to a new boutique to try to do some shopping together.  Then, we separated to start our long lists.  It was a nice treat. 

I wore my hair straight with my suede headband and my plaid shirt. 

We split a pumpkin muffin

and a chive biscuit

They really don’t serve decaf! 

I ran to two stores after saying goodbye and then the traffic was insane.  I ordered a to go spinach salad and went home to eat and then I couldn’t make myself go back out.  What is it with traffic around lunchtime on Fridays?

I have been on the list for this for a long time and finally got it earlier in the week.  It was a bit slow to get started, but now I’m really enjoying it.  I did not like The Royal We.  I felt that it was too long.  This is moving much faster for me.  It is about the fictional American monarchy.  It’s a little goofy – the American royalty are called “The Washingtons” but it’s also interesting to think about what if we did have this type of government.  

Then the boys came home from school and one went to a birthday party and one went to a band gig with friends.  Tom and I had his annual work party to attend. 

It was a nice event as always.  Tom looked nice all cleaned up and he even smiled for the camera. 

I did not get much sleep Friday night because one boy came home late and I waited up.  The same boy took the ACT Saturday morning so this was not ideal.  I headed to Target after he went to the ACT and I stayed inside for 1.5 hours and it was glorious.  I love when I can go early.  I knocked out several items on my list. 

And, I got to enjoy a skinny vanilla latte. My green polish matches my cup, too! 

Tom spent many hours working on the house this weekend.  

I bought ingredients and made the Starbucks medicine ball tea.  Yum! 

Saturday afternoon I had a beer in my slim can holder with my monogram from Heather. 

Saturday night we had all the chicks back in the nest after busy days for both and we used Door Dash to get Qdoba delivered. 

Ernie is such a sweet boy. 

I spent the evening reading and watching t.v. and went to bed super early.  This cookbook is really good and I hope to make some recipes after the new year.  I got this from the library after a blogger recommended it.  

Sunday I did our cards, grocery, laundry, and did some more shopping.  I started the weekend with zero gifts and now I am well on my way to being done!

I will show you the card after I send it! 

Now I am doing school work in hopes of having a smooth week ahead.  I hope you had a great weekend!  

Amy 

P.S. – If you read my Friday Faves post, I did buy the Loreal Ever Pure Sulfate Free Shampoo and Conditioner and it was my friend Tanya’s recommendation.  I love it!  Go see her here!  

Friday, December 13, 2019

Oh my gosh how I am glad to see you, Friday!  I am linking up today with Andrea, etc. so go right here!  

I have so much to do this weekend!  I have not done anything really for Christmas and my excuse is the renovation, the late Thanksgiving, and my job!  Does that excuse hold water?  I have done my mantel, my hall table and my two decorations in front of the house but that is it.  How is it the middle of December?  I really do not understand!!!!

O.k., let’s talk a few favorites today….

I got to eat dinner Wednesday night with my aunt and cousin who were in town shopping.  I didn’t take a single picture!  

My son had his holiday choir concert last night.  I love that he has found his voice – his singing voice – no pun intended.  And, my other son just tried out for the school musical for the first time and sang a song like an angel!  I took my boys to church choir from age 4-12? religiously – pun intended.  They spent ages 12-16 talking about how much they hated it and how they couldn’t believe I made them do that.  But, look who is laughing now!  Me!  I like to bring this up often.  It goes over really well.  

The perfect red lip – I have been on the hunt for the perfect red lip for me.  I have a great summer orangey red that I think looks good – I hope!  

I looked to my favorite classic – Revlon Super Lustrous Creme – and found Bombshell Red.  It is kind of a brick red with a hint of hot pink.  I don’t know what I’m talking about – I like it, though!  This is a great formula for the price – around $8..  To make it last, I usually use a lighter Lipsense color and then top it with Revlon.  I know you aren’t supposed to do that, but it’s my thing now.  

Here is a swatch on my freckled hand – awkward! 

And on the lips – super awkward!  Or, it is artsy? 

Anyway, it’s obvious that I am not a beauty blogger so go look at the grocery store or drug store and let me know what you think!

I could not put this book down!  I don’t know why!  The first in the series wasn’t like that for me.  This drew me in and now I cannot wait for the final in the trilogy.  

When you are a language teacher, you have to do a food day.  I call it a “Cultural Experience”.  The students pick a recipe and have to make it themselves – no store bought foods.  I do allow Tex-Mex.  Here is an example of our bountiful feast in one of my 6 classes.  Yes, I did this 6 times.  

I really want this!  I am so good at Christmas shopping for myself!  Maybe my procrastination will pay off with even better prices as we get closer to Christmas.  My family has really calmed down the gifts and simplified over the last several years.  I get out of school December 20 and probably could wait until then to do most of my shopping.  I definitely won’t wrap or bake until then.  

I want to try this shampoo for highlighted hair.  I haven’t been using anything special and I think I can tell a difference.  Anyone use this or have another recommendation? 

If you watch Bravo show and you don’t listen to this podcast you are missing out.  This makes me roll with laughter and I love the hosts so much.  It is not appropriate for young ears.  They do the funniest impressions of the people on all The Real Housewives shows and Below Deck right now.  

What have been your favorites of the week?  Are you stressed about the holidays or are you like me this year?  

Make it a great weekend!  

Amy 

Thursday, December 12, 2019

You hear a lot of bloggers talk about Kendra Scott – and with good reason.  It is truly quality jewelry for a decent price.  I fell in love with the Rayne necklace maybe 8 years ago.  My first piece was the turquoise and I wore it a ton.  I then asked for the white for Valentine’s Day from my hub and I wore that color even more!  I love everything about this necklace.  The stones are so pretty, the tassel is so fun, and it adds that third piece that I think is so crucial in a pulled together outfit.  

The white Rayne which is about 6-7 years old.  These retail for somewhere between $70-90 but Nordstrom often runs sales and you can get 20% off by signing up for emails on the KS website. 

The turquoise

This was my 50% off birthday piece two years ago.  If you go into an actual KS store in your birth month you get this deal which is incredibly generous. 

This year’s 50% off piece.  It is so beautiful!  I have worn it so many times already! 

Her earrings are also extremely popular and surprisingly lightweight. 

A gift from a dear blogging friend Kellyann from This Blonde’s Shopping Bag blog.  These bracelets would make an excellent gift. 

And, now for some outfits with the pieces! In my opinion, these would have been boring without the long necklace/third piece that my KS adds.  

These make a great gift for the younger tween or teen, too.  They are loving the tiny stone choker necklaces.

Where do you stand on Kendra Scott?  

Amy