sweet thoughts.

Steve and I have been going to the gym together after getting the boys to bed at least twice a week lately and it’s been so fun (he’s always been going, but I’m just starting to join him.). We don’t sit and chat while we’re there, obviously (we’re there to pump iron! not to chat!) but even the five minutes in the car both ways, and then the eye contact across the gym makes it just a wee bit like a quick and simple date night and it’s been so fun. I am still doing barre and core + cardio classes as often as I can (which lately hasn’t been much more than once or twice a week) but I want to build more muscle so going to the gym to lift has been awesome. I get a little bit high off the sore muscles I get for the few days following. Next I will start flexing my (tiny) biceps for anyone who pauses long enough to look. Not obnoxious at all.

The other day we were sitting at Lindsey’s softball game and Parker and Anders were arguing over whose Transformer was faster. Each had very valid points, and considered the other’s perspective thoughtfully before responding (yeah right). As Parker continues telling Anders, “Mine is much faster!” I respond, “Parker! Say something positive!” He responds, “Okay. Anders, I am POSITIVE that my Transformer is faster.” I started cracking up, and of course, the mood was entirely changed.

Our firepit! It’s basically done aside from maybe some throw pillows, or some plants around the area. We’re loving it so far and getting major use out of it. Also, if you are nearing or are very much in the teen years, and like the idea of them having a safe place to have fun and stay out of trouble, build a fire pit in your backyard! Right now! William and his group of friends have been at our house late into the evening like 4 of the last 7 nights for a fire pit. Cost is minimal–provide the firewood and the s’mores (okay, and the fire pit in the first place, which was also minimal!) and they’ll sit and chat for hours. So long as they keep their voices down as it nears 10:00 so they don’t disrupt the neighbors or a sleeping Parker and Anders, all is good. It’s been really nice actually. P.S. The chair colors are mismatched because the one Anders is sitting on is new, and the one next to him is the same but now bleached out! They’ll match in a few years time, I suppose.

Right now is the Nordstrom yearly sale, and while I don’t usually take much advantage of it, the two things I often do buy when it comes round is a new pair of these leggings (specifically the high-waisted; they are my go to’s and have been for the last several years. I’m telling you, my first pair is still good as new. Promise.), this bra always and forever (I was actually on the ball this year, and managed to get the color and the size I needed which is never the case), and a pair of these shorts for Parker. This top is part of the sale, is awesome, but I am refraining from any further purchases! You heard me!

Outfit: my shoes are the Paloma mule graciously sent by my favorite shoe brand Nisolo, top is J.Crew (40% off), and jeans are ASOS.