THURSDAY'S THOUGHTS

FEELING: Whenever we get excited in my family, we say we've got bubbles. Essentially, that just means you're so stinking excited you simply can't take it anymore. Now I realize we have five days before we depart, so it' s probably a bit early to be feeling all the bubbles, but I can't help it. I just do. It's not a bad thing to feel preemptive bubbles, it just makes the waiting part unbearable.

THANKFUL FOR: I'm so grateful for my in-laws. They're watching Max for a few hours this morning while I tend to my ashy roots. In fact, I believe there's some rule that says you can't leave town looking like a mousy hot mess. Hmm, where did I read that? Anywho, it's such a treat to run errands and go to appointments sans baby DURING the week. I could definitely get used to this! Honestly, I can't thank them enough for this little outing; it's exactly what I needed. And let's face it, Max is loving all the attention.

THINKING ABOUT: Oh. Em. Gee. I've got a duffel bag that's hanging out in my closet just waiting to be packed. How do I even begin to approach such a hefty task? This is the first big trip I've taken since Max graced us with his presence, and I'm not entirely sure how I'm supposed to make room for all of HIS stuff when I really need room for MY stuff. Selfish much?! You see, I typically like to have options when I travel. We're talking a dozen different necklaces (that bling gets heavy) and flats in a variety of colors and styles. Sigh. Over the past few weeks, I've attempted to give myself little pep talks (It can be done!) and draft a plan of attack in my mind. Let's see how it goes. I suppose it won't hurt to be a little practical...

EATING: I never know what to cook when we have guests. It feels nerve-wracking just trying to think of possible meal ideas. Do you ever feel this way? I always struggle with trying new recipes or sticking with old classics. Since my in-laws were driving down from Missouri and we weren't exactly sure when they'd arrive Wednesday night, I opted to prepare these Balsamic Roast Beef French Dip Sandwiches from Add A Pinch. I didn't know how hungry they'd be, and I needed something low-maintenance. I typically despise Crock-Pot recipes. No matter how much I season the dish, it always tastes terribly bland. What am I doing wrong?! Thankfully, this recipe turned out to be surprisingly flavorful and was a fantastic option considering the timeline and circumstances. 

LISTENING TO: My dad, who adores Max like crazy cakes, pointed out that my child can simultaneously be pleased, pissed, and passé. Yes, it's true. Even as the colic has passed, Max can never decide what mood he's in. Lately he's been making this sound that starts out like a cry and turns into a laugh. It's SO confusing! I really feel like I'm being played by a five-month-old mastermind. These voodoo tricks must be payback for the roller coaster of emotions I submitted my parents to (and still do!). I suddenly feel like Meg Ryan in the movie French Kiss, "Happy, smile. Sad, frown. Use the corresponding face with the corresponding emotion." Oy!

WATCHING: Over the past few weeks, I started to place Max in his Jumperoo while I spin in the afternoons. Now that he's become more active, it keeps him entertained while I work out. I typically set his crazy technicolor contraption (Yep, I still abhor it!) next to my bike. I figure if I'm panting and pedaling, I might as well have something cute to stare at. Lately I've noticed that whenever I'm up and out of the saddle doing jumps and climbs, he proceeds to hop around with oodles of excitement. It's absolutely hysterical to watch and it warms my heart. He's also quite mesmerized by the flywheel and its swirling motion. I can tell he's getting tired whenever he starts staring at it. Ha Ha! I suppose cardio isn't so bad when you've got a tiny cheerleader right next to you.

READING: A big piece of my heart belongs to Roald Dahl. His playful words and silly stories meant so much to me growing up. Even now, as an adult, I realize how nuggets of his wisdom continue to offer guidance and inspiration. I recently read this quote and it stopped me in my tracks. When I look at how I'd like to approach each day, task, and my various roles (as mom, wife, daughter, sister, friend, etc.), I'd like to think of this as a mission statement to make each day count.

"I began to realize how important it was to be an enthusiast in life. If you are interested in something, no matter what it is, go at it full speed. Embrace it with both arms. Hug it. Love it. And above all, become passionate about it. Lukewarm is no good." — ROALD DAHL

LOVING: This is going to sound terrible, but life in Swell Rio can be a little (okay, a lot!) draining at times. If I'm being completely honest with you and myself, I've been running on empty for the past few months. I'm SO ready to fill up my tank with family and a change of scenery. This trip could not come at a better time. I look forward to spending time with the weirdos in my tribe. I'm talking about an afternoon of shopping, a morning at the museum, dinners filled with belly laughs and glasses spiked with gin.

Enough about me. How are you feeling today? What are you up to? Thanks for stopping by!!