Friday 5+1 (5 Things I Love + 1 Thing I Don’t) – 6.14.19

I had college orientation this week for my middle son (which means we were out the door by 6:30AM two days IN A ROW), so suffice to say, I’m beat!  This girl isn’t used to an early summer schedule.  But, he’s excited, and seems ready to tackle college life, so I guess it’s all a mom can ask for at this point, right?  Both boys will be going to the same school (did I mention my oldest transferred after freshman year?), so that makes me happy.  

They’re both nearby, and I love that they’re in the same place.  But  I’m really going to miss all of the “boy noise” in my house when they’re gone.  Does that make sense?  I’m used to having lots of boys in the house, watching basketball or football games (like they are as I type this), playing video games, or just hanging out.  It’s going to be a tough transition, even though I know they’re both ready to move on to the next chapter.

Confession: I never saw myself as a Mother of Boys.  I remember having friends visit us with their two boys, before we had kids, and after they left, I thought about how loud and crazy boys were.  I always saw myself as a “girl mom”, never thinking I would be a good mother of boys, or even enjoy that process.  Lo and behold, I have LOVED being the mother of boys.  So young mamas out there, don’t underestimate the power of the mother/son relationship.  It’s so special, and one I never could have anticipated to be so rewarding.

Ok, enough with the sob stories – let’s get on to something more fun – like a Friday 5+1!  This post may contain some affiliate links.

Watermelon Cutter

Even though today felt downright fall-like, I feel compelled to share this summer tool that is sure to make your watermelon cutting easier!  Where have you been all my life?

Pop-up Trash Bin

I’m still working on a post with my favorite graduation party ideas, but this is one that is great for any outdoor party.  How about a pop-up trash bin that looks cute and festive, but still serves a great function?  That’s a win in my book!

Ups a Daisy

I spotted these at a local nursery, and had to share them.  This is a brilliant idea when it comes to planting summer flower pots.  Another “duh” moment right here.  The “Ups a Daisy” planter inserts go into your pots so that you don’t use as much potting soil, and they also allow for proper drainage when you water your plants.  Not to mention that they make your planters lighter in the process!  

Dead to Me

Have any of you guys watched Dead to Me on Netflix yet?  My husband and I discovered it and blew through it in no time flat!  A funny, yet complicated plot that keeps you guessing, and it features Christina Applegate, which makes it all the better.  She’s great in it!

Daily Reminders from a Dad

As many of you remember, my brother in law passed away last September, after a brave battle with cancer.  One of the things we found after he died, was a hand-written list of “Daily Reminders” that resonate and deserve to be shared.  Especially with Father’s Day this weekend.  I thought you all would appreciate them as well.

• Listen, listen, listen
• Don’t speak before you think
• You have nothing to prove
• Don’t sweat the small stuff
• Prioritize issues most important to least
• Don’t get personal with colleagues
• Don’t drink a bunch of beer when out
• Think big picture
• Be objective
• Be a leader and a follower
• Talk to your wife 15 minutes when you get home
• Don’t talk about work with your wife
• Don’t complain, just deal with it
• Listen to your boss and to others
• Think, think, think
• Give 100% each day
• Live one day at a time

My +1 for the week – The Price of Greeting Cards

Seriously, since when is a store-bought card worth $6.99 or more?  Call me crazy, but I look for the 99 cent section, or maybe two for $4.  I’m not being cheap, I just know where most cards end up when it’s all said and done.

Have an awesome Father’s Day weekend, and give your dad a hug if you’re lucky enough to still have him in your life.  I know I will.

Jenny