Movies Watched in May 2012

1. The Change-Up
2. Life As We Know It

Slow month. I am still watching Parks and Recreation on Netflix Instant Play. I did continue to watch Sherlock as series 2 started (and ended) on PBS. However, as for new movies, kind of a piddly little month. The less said about May’s viewing, the better.

Books Read in May 2012

1. The Last Boyfriend by Nora Roberts (NOTE: This is part of the Inn Boonsboro trilogy. The order of which is The Next Always, The Last Boyfriend, and the upcoming The Perfect Hope.)
2. Barefoot Season by Susan Mallery
3. The Sense of an Ending by Julian Barnes
4. Wicked Games by Jill Myles
5. Taken by Selena Kitt
6. Lucky in Love by Jill Shalvis (NOTE: This is part of the Lucky Harbor series. The order can be found here as well as on her website.)
7. Power Tools series by Jane Rylon (NOTE: This is part of the Power Tools series. The order can be found here.)

Most of the reading came at the beginning of the month, and it started strong with Nora Roberts and Susan Mallery and then a decent book club book. Then, I just skimmed a bunch of erotica until Jill Shalvis's release. This may be one of my favorite Jill Shalvis books and hero. I'm really enjoying the town of Lucky Harbor. I have a lot of books from the library that I'm hoping to make it through, but we'll see. I'll have to kick it up a notch to get all the reading done in the first part of June.

Hilarious Game

So, you print out these sheets. There are instructions on how to make it all fancy on card stock and purchasing a container for all the cards, but the game is simple. You pick a small group of friends and hand out the white cards. Then, you choose a black card. Everyone picks the funniest, most clever answer out of his or her white card choices.  Hilarity ensues.

You can see an example here. It explains visually what I cannot with words.

Silliness over a Peach

I bought a peach over the weekend.  Little Miss has always enjoyed them.  So, I remembered it last night and said she could have it.  I cut it into slices, and we all took a piece.  Little Miss asked for the skin to be peeled off.  I told her the skin, with peaches, is very important because peaches are delicate and need the skin.  So, she promptly ate the peach like an orange slice - around the skin.  I told her that was fine.  Whatever she does, DO NOT EAT THE SKIN OF THE PEACH.  What did she do next?  She ate the peel.  She looked at me and said, "Mommy, did you see what I did?"  After every bite, I gave her mock horror as she ate more and more of the peel.  She ate it all, but instead of constant whining, the evening was filled with giggles.

Weekend Update - Lazy Weekend

Last weekend, we spent the majority of it at the pool. On Saturday, we met Brother-in-Law, Sister-in-Law, Nephew and friends at the pool. The kids had a blast. My friend's daughter is a year old and Little Miss (who spent very little time with her) has talked about nothing else and keeps saying seeing her was the best part of the weekend.

On Sunday, we repeated Saturday. The picture above shows Nephew napping and Little Miss having some quiet time. She can take or leave a nap, but she definitely needed a time out (as did the adults). We spent the evening with Brother-in-Law, Sister-in-Law and Nephew. The kids had a bath together and then had dinner. Eventually, both fell asleep on the couch. It was a nice, relaxing day.

On Monday, we needed to get back into a routine. I actually wasn't feeling well so I spent the morning with the doctor and getting a prescription. In the afternoon, we took a Family Nap which is one of my favorite activities except then I couldn't sleep last night which is a bad occasional side effect to the late afternoon nap.

Little Miss also had trouble falling asleep last night due to the long nap, but at least it's her first day of vacation.

Weekend Update - School's Out

Last Friday, it was Little Miss's last day of school. There was a little concert during which the kids recited the Pledge of Allegiance, did the sign of the cross, and sang some songs. After, there was a reception where snacks were provided and then the class went to a nearby park.

Little Miss actually participated during the concert though she spent the first half looking for us all in the audience. The In-Laws came with Nephew.  After she found us, she was all about performing. She really had a great time at school this year (though I should mention she's also transitioning well to vacation).

At the park, the kids mostly ran around like they have never seen wide open space or fresh air before in their lives. Lots of screaming and running and running and screaming. All of the parents were talking about getting the kids together over the summer, too. It was such a great, great class. Everyone got along so well, and many will be back in Little Miss's classroom next year which is also great.

Weekend Update - Hockey and Graduation

I'm playing catch up so my memory may be a little fuzzy. Last weekend, we had a quiet Friday. On Saturday, Little Miss and I went to the library for the Truck Petting Zoo. Basically, all sorts of trucks and emergency vehicles gather in the parking lot. Kids can climb in and around them (firetruck until it was called away, police car and tank, army jeep, tow truck, crane, back hoe, garbage truck, cement mixer and bus). Little Miss pitched a fit and we abruptly left after a few minutes.

After a non-nap, we went to Brother-in-Law and Sister-in-Law's apartment for Brother-in-Law's graduation party (he graduated grad school the day before) and to watch a hockey playoffs game. One of us had a lot of fun. One of us had to drive home.

On Sunday, I had plans so Husband pulled himself together and had a good day with Little Miss. I met friends at the mall for a lovely lunch and light shopping. I found a nice pair of pants that fit which is always super exciting for me and my incredibly short legs.

Mistaken Identity

People often call me Amy.  I also get Rachel a lot.  I guess either start or sound similar, but I think it's funny that I've consistently gotten one or the other.  Well, actually, in grade school, my principal called me Kim, but that is a whole different issue all together.  I don't know if I look like an Amy or Rachel (or an April for that matter).  I guess the bigger question is why I don't correct anyone when he or she gets it wrong.

Hope There's No Confusion

I saw A Million Shades of Gray today at the elementary school book fair. I hope no one gets it confused with Fifty Shades of Grey. Or thinks that if fifty shades yields that kind of book, that one million shades must be off the hook. 

For those who don't know about one or both of the books, one has this summary from Publishers Weekly:

...shows that truth has as many shades of gray as an elephant in this emotionally taut survival story, set in war-torn South Vietnam. After American troops leave his village, Y’Tin, his family, and his neighbors are left to fend off their enemies themselves. But Y’Tin’s mind isn’t on war. It’s on his pet elephant, Lady, and his dreams of opening an elephant-training school. His hopes vanish when North Vietnamese soldiers devastate his small village (Y’Tin helps dig a mass grave at one point). Y’Tin manages to escape into the jungle with a friend, where he reunites with Lady, but separated from family and friends, his thoughts grow dark. As the days go by, he becomes angrier and less trusting, wondering “if he would ever feel safe again or if safety was gone from his life forever.”

Illustrating the wisdom of Y’Tin’s father’s words—“The jungle changes a man”—Kadohata delves deep into the soul of her protagonist while making a faraway place and the stark consequences of war seem very near. Y’Tin’s inner conflicts and changing perception of the world will haunt readers.

The other has this summary:

When literature student Anastasia Steele goes to interview young entrepreneur Christian Grey, she encounters a man who is beautiful, brilliant, and intimidating. The unworldly, innocent Ana is startled to realize she wants this man and, despite his enigmatic reserve, finds she is desperate to get close to him.

Unable to resist Ana’s quiet beauty, wit, and independent spirit, Grey admits he wants her, too—but on his own terms. Shocked yet thrilled by Grey’s singular erotic tastes, Ana hesitates. For all the trappings of success—his multinational businesses, his vast wealth, his loving family—Grey is a man tormented by demons and consumed by the need to control. When the couple embarks on a daring, passionately physical affair, Ana discovers Christian Grey’s secrets and explores her own dark desires.

Slightly different. Though I haven't read either so I'm not an expert.

Weekend Update - The Lost Weekend

I lost a weekend in here. Last weekend, Little Miss and I stayed over my parents' house to spend time with Nephew and my grandparents. My parents had to say goodbye to their cat that day so it was very sad. I included some of my favorite pictures of Toby.  I don't have my favorite of Toby putting up with a Santa hat on his head though.  He was probably the softest cat I've ever felt.  He was a good boy and very good with the kids.  Little Miss did get on his bad side a couple of times, but she also poked him the eye so I call it even.  It helped to have the kids play together though as our Nephew was pretty upset.

On Saturday, the kids woke up at an ungodly hour. They had breakfast and then played. We left a little before lunch time. Then, Little Miss area giant lunch and took a very long nap. In the evening, I met bookclub for drinks and dinner. I got home in time to see the NY Rangers win Game 7 against the Washington Caps.

On Sunday, I got to sleep late for Mother's Day. Then, Husband and Little Miss made me breakfast and gave me a pretty and sparkly necklace and matching earrings. Later, Little Miss and I took a long nap, ate lunch, and then went to the playground. Dinner, bath and bed to end the weekend.

My Annual Purple Post

Every year, I jokingly post a massive amount of items in preparation of my birthday though, every year, someone always gets me at least one thing on my list - so I'm going to keep doing it!  My birthday is June 11 so you still have plenty of time.

First, I really like the above top. I may have to break down and get it myself because it's a sale item and may sell quickly in my size and color (XS/purple). We'll see. I like that it's different from all the other purple tops I own though I'm not too happy with the hand washing care instructions.

Everything else pictured (and then some) can be found on my Amazon wish list though I do buy my books through Barnes and Noble just because I'm a loyal customer like that.

Weekend Update - Busy Busy

Last weekend, we had a quiet Friday of cleaning and preparing for our annual Kentucky Derby party.

On Saturday, Little Miss had a sleepover at her grandparents' house with her cousin. She was so excited. We had friends over and had a great time. I won our little informal pool which was exciting.  Time seemed to go by so quickly.  Lots of food and drink for all.

On Sunday, we put the place back together, went grocery shopping and then Little Miss and I drove out to my parents' house because my grandparents were in town. She got to play with each of them and then with Nephew.  Then, we went home for dinner, homework and bedtime. It was a Greg but quick weekend!

Maurice Sendak

“Children do live in fantasy and reality; they move back and forth very easily in a way we no longer remember how to do.”

More Maurice Sendak quotes here.

Sad Day

RIP Maurice Sendak. 

From my earliest memories, Where the Wild Things Are has been my favorite book. I still have the copy I was given for my fifth birthday. Throughout the rest of my life, I always had that one and a second copy so my original would stay pristine (though, to be honest, it's a bit faded). I won't go into how much I enjoyed the book, but it was a lot. The news of Maurice Sendak's passing this morning has made me incredibly sad. Despite the fact that he was 83 which is not young, it always seems too soon.

The caption above says:  "Inside all of us is a Wild Thing.  'And Max, the king of all wild things, was lonely and wanted to be where someone loved him best of all.'"

Quote of the Day

Little Miss:  I don't like insects.  I like doggies, cats ... and babies.

I don't think I've ever considered those items as equal, but there you have it.

Doctor Who Gripe

I've been watching Doctor Who since earlier this year.  I've watched all the episodes from the Ninth Doctor to the last episode through Netflix Instant Play.  For fun, I started recording the BBC America episodes and rewatching when time and inclination allows.  I've noticed that the tv versions cut out full minutes of footage which sometimes isn't noticeable and sometimes is.  So, now I don't know if I should even watch the show when it's back on television.  

Yes, I know that's ridiculous.  We all know I'm going to watch when it's back on television and then again when it hits Netflix.  Still, it's annoying.

Makeup

NOTE:  I used some old photos - some oldies but goodies.  I also should mention that, in both photos, Little Miss took the makeup out of my purse and, each time, that was how I found her.  I now keep my makeup locked in a cabinet and keep very little in my purse. 

I never wore makeup as a kid.  Maybe it's because I had little desire to.  I wore it for dance recitals and don't have fond memories.  Little Miss, however, is all into the makeup.  I don't let her wear too much (part of the reason is below).  She knows she can't wear any eye makeup and can't wear any lipstick that's too dark.  She'll pick up a tube and ask "is this color for little girls or is it too dark?"  She's really only allowed to put on a clear gloss (mostly because she still puts on lipstick like she did in the picture below).

So, every morning, she has to put on her makeup with me - lip gloss, blush (which is really dabbing the brush in the blush and dotting her cheeks with practically empty brush) and powder.  I rarely wear powder so I think it's funny she has to literally powder her nose before we leave for preschool.  On the weekends or special occasions, I will put a little shimmer/glitter on her, but that's for parties or Halloween.  It's true.  They grow up so quickly.

Weekend Update - Our Fashionista

It was a fast, low-key weekend. On Friday, we did grocery shopping before Little Miss came home. Then, we just kind of hung out the rest of the evening. Friday, I came home with a little treat for Little Miss - butterfly wings. They've been on her person all weekend.

On Saturday, Husband woke up with Little Miss and then I got up for breakfast. Husband went golfing while Little Miss and I walked to the library. Little Miss picked her own outfit while I showered and got ready. She picked her Jets shirt ("Because I love the Jets!") and then matching pants. Except they were pj pants. She had her dress up shoes on, but we changed to sneakers before leaving the house. After the library, we came home, ate lunch and took a nice, long nap which was much-needed for both of us. After, Husband came home and rested as he wasn't feeling well. Little Miss had dinner and went to bed and then Husband and I relaxed on the couch.

On Sunday, Husband woke up with Little Miss while I lounged a bit. Then, we had breakfast together. After, the three of us picked up Brother-in-Law for some water ice at Rita's. Then, we dropped Brother-in-Law back off home while we head to my parents. Little Miss did her homework and then played with Nephew while I helped organize my stuff for an upcoming tag sale for my parents. We had dinner there and then head home to do bath and bedtime.

That concluded another weekend. It was fun though Little Miss's emotions were at the extreme all weekend. Her original looks are all documented here. She does have a unique sense of style.

Weekend Update - My Girl Wants to Party All the Time

Last weekend, we had a quiet Friday - grocery shopping and couch time. On Saturday, Husband woke up with Little Miss and then drove to New Jersey for a hockey game with friends. So, Little Miss and I had a good relaxing morning and then went to a birthday party. After the party (above with her cousin), we went back to the birthday girl's house for some play time. Then, we drove home to beat the bad storm. We had a very quiet evening as it was a no nap day for Little Miss and she was exhausted. 

On Sunday, we slept late (well, late for a toddler). We had a big breakfast. Little Miss and I shared 3 eggs and cheese (though she ate the majority of them). Then, Sister, Nephew and Sister's Boyfriend came over. We were going to a baseball game, but the weather was awful so we opted to go to the mall where we had lunch and the kids played. After another no nap day, Little Miss fell asleep in the car, but she woke up when we got home because Husband was coming home. So, homework, bath and bed (our usual Sunday routine) went down and ended another weekend. 

Not much planned for this weekend so hoping to have another nice weekend.

Books Read in April 2012

1. The Descendants by Kaui Hart Hemmings
2. The Duke's Perfect Wife by Jennifer Ashley (NOTE: This is book 4 in the Highland Pleasures series. You can find the order here.)
3. Happy Endings by Jane Lynch
4. About That Night by Julie James (NOTE: This is part of the FBI/US Attorney series. The order can be found here.)
5. Time Out by Jill Shalvis
6. No Longer a Gentleman by Mary Jo Putney (NOTE: This is part of the The Lost Lords series. The order can be found here.)

I kept my reading momentum from last month and read a lot in the early part of the month, and a mixture of books. The Descendants was good. I liked it more than the movie though I missed George Clooney and the beautiful scenery. I went old school and read the paperback. The romance novels were all ebooks this month, all by my favorite authors so they were all enjoyable. Happy Accidents was from the library, and I really liked it. Jane Lynch has a great voice and I liked how she chose to tell her story. I'm currently reading my book club book which I doubt I'll finish before the end of the month. Then, I'm excited for Tuesday's Nora Roberts's release. I'm really enjoying her latest series about the Inn Boonesboro. More about that next month!