Wassup?

Outside my window: It's staying dark in the morning---longer. It's 6 a.m. and dawn has not yet broken.

I am thinking: That I'm feeling pretty on top of things for a Monday morning. I usually start the week with a long list of things to accomplish. I think I might just get to a few things that have been on my list for months. Or, maybe not.

I am thankful for: The dishwasher. 

From the kitchen: I was a cooking fool yesterday as I made a huge pot of vegetable soup for my freezer club. Hence, the reason I'm thankful for the dishwasher.

I am wearing: Still in my jammies.

I am hoping: That Jordan comes in this weekend. She emailed me that she might---and she wants a family dinner if she does.

I am reading: Beauty Rising, by Mark Sasse. I'm more than half way in to it and it's really good. It was one of my bargain books---$2.99 for the Kindle. Lately I've started to be skeptical of the bargains. I just read 2 on my trip to Italy that were pretty stupid. I was mad that I wasted my time.

I am busy creating: I'm in the middle of my AYM layout. Well, actually more near the end. I have more journaling than will fit, so I have to figure out what I'm going to do. 

Connie, Nancy and I have started out latest needlepoint project. This one is a witch---doll type thing. It will stand on a hand-painted wooden base. I'm letting them decide what our "assignment" will be each week as we work it together. I have to figure out who I'm going to give it to.

 I'm bummed: That I didn't buy more Pope Francis holy cards. It's kind of hard to think when you are standing there. 

I am hearing: The hum of the dishwasher and the morning news on TV.

Around the house and garden: We have our favorite contractor coming by today to figure out if the back door can be fixed or if it needs to be replaced. I'm going to be really upset if we have to replace it, because we just did about 2 or 3 years ago. That guy completely messed it up. He cut it too short, then the hinges were off---a mess. I don't know what he did to "fix" it, but it hasn't held. 

In other news: Steph started a new job two weeks ago. She's really excited for a new challenge with an exploding, young company. She's ambitious (like her dad), so this should be the perfect fit for her.

One of my favorite things right now: I would have to list "Pink" as one of my favorite things right now---actually for a couple of years. I just love her! She's edgy, but I'm always impressed with singer/songwriters. Her recent song "True Love" is so real! You might love your spouse, but sometimes you feel like wrapping your hands around their neck!

I appreciate: Margarita. I would not like to have to go back to cleaning my own house. I'm particular and it takes way too long. I appreciate being able to use that time for other things---like "Movie Mondays." I've started that up again. Today, my friends and I are meeting for lunch at Jonathan's and then seeing Prisoners with Hugh Jackman. It's been a while since I've seen a movie at the theater.

I regret: that summer is over. That means our pool parties have come to an end. We had one last Friday---and even got in the pool, but the water is getting cold. With the temperatures dipping in to the low 50's at night, the water gets cold quick. I think pool time is done for 2013.

How the week is shaping up: I have a pretty light week. I'm really wanting to get some scrapbooking done. I have two more layouts to do for my classes and another kit to put together. Looking forward to it.

Hope your week will be a good one!