Have you seen those videos that ask “why are moms so tired all the time” and then the voiceover proceeds to give a running dialogue of a woman’s train of thought? I find them funny because they are so accurate.
When I look at my day, it looks super simple: co-op, phone call at 3:45, kids soccer. In my head, however, it’s a constant buzz of reminders that somehow all feel incredibly important not to let slip through the crack.
It’s all getting done somehow though, even though I might appear to be scatterbrained, and I’m so excited. It’s Hailey’s birthday week AND we take off soon for our big trip to Zion National Park and Las Vegas. I’ve only recently really dug into the details and it appears we will be fairly cut off from communication for a couple days. David is figuring out how to make that work with his job and the rental properties, but it’s coming together, and ultimately we are both tickled pink at the idea of really getting away.
There is something that really appeals to me about the idea of being disconnected. I love to share experiences, but there is something that just feels right about the forced delay in being able to do so for this trip.
It’s a milestone birthday for me (40!) and while at the moment I don’t have any angst about it, I do like the sentiment of unplugging, being fully present with David and the girls in a beautiful setting, and having the opportunity to do all the woo-woo stuff I love so much- reflect on life, live some slow days, look at the stars and ponder the big questions of the universe.
For milestone moments in your life- is there a special way you like to spend them? Some unique marker or pause to mark the occasion?
In present time though, I’m taking full advantage of modern conveniences and ordering last minute items on 1 day delivery that I think we might need. Recent wins include this light weight hiking backpack, new hiking boots for Hailey, and a refill of my favorite immune boosters that I take while traveling.
Yesterday after math I read aloud for 90 minutes and nearly lost my voice, but the kids were so into Hunger Games and wanted to know how it ended, so we finished it and even squeezed in watching the first movie last night. It was intense in a couple parts, but reading the book first always helps. They both were enthralled.
Both kids are incredibly engaged in the story line and want to start the second book. I think we will, but I also purchased (on a recommendation from an IG friend, so thank you!), The Underland Chronicles, a series from the same author, meant for a slightly younger crowd (grade level 3-7), that according to multiple people, is incredible.
Today we have co-op and the kids have soccer and I will finish wrapping H’s birthday gifts and procure some decorations. She’ll be 12 on Friday! And now it’s time to take Finley on her sniffari, pack our co-op lunch, and get breakfast going.
I leave you with two pictures making me smile- first, my messy kitchen table which represents life at the moment- art projects and messy piles while I read aloud. Happy feels. And second, last night’s dinner of chili and salad served in my new obsession, these combo bowls!
Thanks for stopping by to chat; I hope you have a wonderful Wednesday <3
Monica says
I love these little chats! I’m excited to hear about your upcoming trip, as we are planning to take the kids to Las Vegas soon! I’d love to hear your kid friendly recommendations! Enjoy the rest of your week!
Brittany Dixon says
We will have 2 days in Las Vegas so won’t have time to do too much but plan on seeing some of the sites and taking the kids to a show. I think they’ll get the biggest kick out of it!
Lynn Thow says
I love the bowls, the beautiful picture of the pumpkin, and the the memories you are making through the read-a-louds with your girls!🧡
Lynn says
I love the bowls, the beautiful picture of the pumpkin, and the the memories you are making through the read-a-louds with your girls!🧡
Rach says
Enjoy Zion! I was there last year and it was incredible. I don’t recommend the Angel’s Landing hike for kids. And make sure to bring something for blisters on the trail 🙂
Brittany Dixon says
We did win a lottery pass for angel’s landing and right now plan to make it up Walter’s Wiggles to Scouts Landing and decide from there. When did you hike it? Was it pre lottery? Did you like it?
Rach says
Scout’s landing view is pretty similar to what you get at the top of angel’s landing! I think that’s a good approach.
I went last year and had passes from the lottery. It is an extremely technically complex and dangerous hike. I’m afraid of heights and REALLY struggled here. One slip and you are falling off the cliff (not an exaggeration, lol!). In many areas you are perched on a small ledge holding a chain, or walking across a 2 foot wide expanse with sharp dropoffs on either side. I think there were some kids doing it, but it would definitely make me nervous. You need to be a strong and confident hiker here.
I highly recommend watching this youtube video of someone wearing a GoPro camera doing the hike – it is a really good visualization of it and will help you make an informed decision! Also look up and read the Alltrails reviews if you haven’t already.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pER36CxlXEc
Brittany Dixon says
I totally agree- not to be taken lightly! We’ve show the kids videos of it but told them we will make a game time decision. Definitely don’t want to push any of us if it’s out of our comfort zone. Gratefully there are great views from so many different places in the park I’ve heard. Thanks so much for the input!
Lauren says
Hey Brittany! I too love read alouds with my girls and we can often get caught up in books too. I wanted to tell you about these giant read aloud posters you might like! I saw them this summer at a homeschool convention and immediately bought some. I have since purchased more 🤣. They are really big and give the kids something to color and work on while reading but also have questions and character profiles and other things to do. We did number the stars and lion, witch, and wardrobe and my girls had fun with them and i have purchased the secret garden, the vanderbeekers, and a place to hang the moon (which is such a good book 💗) They are from rubyreadsbooks.com. Anyway thought it might be something y’all might like!
Have fun on y’all’s trip and happy birthday to y’all! (I too turn 40 (how?) in about a week and a half)
Brittany Dixon says
Oh my goodness those posters are SO neat!! I’ve never seen them; thank you for sharing. I’m going to see if any line up for some upcoming read alouds for us.
And a big HAPPY MILESTONE BIRTHDAY to you, Lauren! I hope you feel loved and celebrated on your special day 🙂